PhD position in molecular evolution

TN Germany; München; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 55.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research lab at TUM is seeking a doctoral researcher to explore RNA and coacervate interactions. This role involves using microfluidic devices to study molecular evolution in prebiotic environments, contributing to groundbreaking research in synthetic biology.

Leistungen

Opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree

Diversity and inclusion commitment

Preference for disabled applicants

Qualifikationen

• Experience with ribozymes and RNA work is advantageous.
• Interest in the origins of life and engineering life-like systems.

Aufgaben

• Study RNA and positively charged peptides in coacervate droplets.
• Monitor development via microscopy in microfluidic devices.

Kenntnisse

Organizational Skills

Experimental Practices

Collaboration

Communication

Ausbildung

Master’s degree in biochemistry

Master’s degree in biophysics

Master’s degree in biotechnology

Tools

Microfluidics

Microscopy

Jobbeschreibung

Job Description:

The project involves studying RNA and positively charged peptides that form coacervate droplets, supporting internal reactions involving RNA and ribozymes. These compartments can enrich and protect catalytically active molecules and exchange with the environment, potentially supplying precursors for growth and evolution of complex molecules through coacervate-mediated reactions. Microfluidic devices will be used to supply substrates for RNA polymerization in coacervates and monitor their development via microscopy. The goal is to understand the feedback between ribozyme activity and coacervate properties to enable compartment growth and genetic material replication, moving closer to systems capable of Darwinian evolution.

The Niederholtmeyer lab, located at TUM Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, is a supportive team of synthetic biologists interested in cell-free systems and engineering life-like compartments. The doctoral researcher will join the DFG-funded CRC on Molecular Evolution in Prebiotic Environments, with its own graduate program. More information about CRC and sub-project B8 can be found on their website.

Candidate Profile:

• Master’s degree in biochemistry, biophysics, or biotechnology with good grades
• Experience with ribozymes, RNA work, microfluidics, and microscopy is advantageous
• Interest in the origins of life and engineering life-like systems
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous experimental practices
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently
• Excellent communication and writing skills in English

Offer:

We offer a 65% position as academic staff with the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree. The position is limited to three years, with salary based on the TV-L collective agreement. TUM encourages applications from qualified women and is committed to diversity and inclusion. The position is suitable for disabled persons, who will be given preference in case of equal suitability.