Research associate Jobs in Düsseldorf

Main tasks

To support our ongoing research, we are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team. Our group is an enthusiastic and collaborative team of cell and evolutionary biologists investigating the evolutionary transition from bacterial endosymbionts to eukaryotic organelles. We seek to understand, at the mechanistic level, how protists interact with permanent bacterial endosymbionts and how these associations evolve toward organellogenesis. To address these questions, we combine state-of-the-art omics approaches with detailed molecular biological and protein biochemical experimentation. As model systems, we have established the photosynthetic amoeba Paulinella chromatophora and the symbiont-harboring trypanosomatid Angomonas deanei and related species in the laboratory. Our work has provided exciting insights into organellogenesis and enabled us to develop novel tools for dissecting the molecular and cellular biology of host–symbiont interactions (see e.g., Morales et al. (2023) Curr Biol. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.11.020.; Sørensen et al. (2024) FEBS J. doi: 10.1111/febs.17356; Maurya et al. (2025) Science Adv. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adp8518; Klimenko et al. (2025) Plant Phys. doi: 10.1093/plphys/kiaf504; Hammond et al. (2026) Nat Commun. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-70084-0.). The successful candidate will contribute to a current project at the heart of our research program, with the opportunity to shape the project in part according to their scientific interests, expertise, and strengths. The position will also involve a limited amount of undergraduate teaching in German [4 contact hours (Semesterwochenstunden) per week], providing an opportunity to contribute to the training of the next generation of biologists.

Your Profile

• A Master’s degree and PhD in biology, biochemistry or a related area
• An excellent academic track record
• Research experience in microbiology or cell biology, genetic engineering, and advanced microscopy techniques
• Experience with organelle biology, symbioses or protistology is a plus
• A strong motivation in experimental work, literature search and scientific writing
• Readiness to work independently and as a team player in an interdisciplinary, international team
• Fluency (oral and written) in English and German
• Proactive character, creativity, communication and presentation skills, excellent organization and analytical skills

Our Offer

The position is initially limited for a period of 2 years with the possibility of extension. It is a qualification position in the sense of the Act of Academic Fixed-Term Contract (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz - WissZeitVG), which is to promote the scientific qualification of the employee. The pay scale grouping will be 13 TV-L.

Our Benefits

• Company pension grant
• Good transport connection
• Free parking
• Flexitime
• Working from home
• Union rates
• Part-time possible
• Payment of capital-forming benefits

Company pension grant; Good transport connection; Free parking; Flexitime; Working from home; Union rates; Part-time possible; Payment of capital-forming benefits

About us

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf is committed to the principle of “Excellence through Diversity.” The University has signed the Diversity Charter and successfully participated in the Stifterverband’s “Vielfalt gestalten” (Shaping Diversity) audit. It is certified as a family-friendly university and has received the HR Excellence in Research Award from the European Union. Applications from people of all genders are expressly encouraged. In accordance with the provisions of the State Equal Opportunities Act, applications from women will be given preference where candidates are equally qualified. Applications from severely disabled persons and persons with equivalent status are likewise expressly encouraged. To ensure that severe disability or equivalent status is taken into consideration, please provide appropriate supporting documentation.

Heinrich Heine University upholds the principle of "Excellence through Diversity". It has signed the "Diversity Charter" and successfully participated in the Stifterverband's audit "Shaping Diversity". It is certified as a family-friendly university and has set itself the goal of promoting diversity among its staff. Applications from people of all genders are expressly welcome. Applications from women will be given preferential consideration in accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act. The application of severely disabled persons and persons with equivalent disabilities is also welcome. In order for a severe disability or equality to be taken into account, please provide evidence of this with suitable documents.

Contact

Eva Nowack, Head of institute
+49 211 81 13582