Doctoral student position in molecular biophysics of cilia

Doctoral student position in molecular biophysics of cilia

A doctoral student position is available in

the group of Dr. Adrian Nievergelt

at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology in Potsdam, Germany. The group of Dr. Adrian Nievergelt is interested in the fundamental molecular processes that define how algal cells work, with a special focus on ciliary biology and intracellular transport mechanisms. The group works primarily on the green model alga Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii and uses precision genetic engineering, advanced light and electron microscopy, biochemical methods and custom built instrumentation. The position focuses on cilia, highly conserved cellular organelles found from algae to men which can cause severe diseases when defective. A successful candidate will work on understanding how cilia, especially the ciliary membrane, function at a molecular level. This highly interdisciplinary work will involve questions such as how algal cells use their cilia to adhere and glide over surfaces and which proteins are involved in this process.

Your profile:

Essential:

• An MSc or equivalent degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics or Bioengineering background
• Strong interest in wet-lab work and method development
• Programming and data analysis skills
• Ability to work beyond established protocols
• Excellent written and spoken communication in English
• Ability to work in a highly collaborative environment

Desirable:

• Previous experience with Chlamydomonas or other single celled algae
• Light and/or electron microscopy skills
• Interest in mechanical design
• Interest in structural biology and protein work

Our offer:

• Doctoral student position for three years (plus one), paid according to German public service pay scale (65% E13 TVÖD Bund).
• Competent mentoring and additional training events and courses
• A stimulating environment in a dynamic, international team of cooperative and motivated scientists
• Access to the infrastructure of one of the leading plant science institutes in the world
• Working in the Potsdam Science Park and near by the exciting urban area of Berlin

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity and has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. We therefore welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Your application:

Applications should be submitted via the online system. Please include these documents into your application:

• CV
• Contact information of minimum 2 referees
• Motivation letter explaining why you are interested in joining the group and why you are the right person to make progress in the field
• Please specify from when you would be able to start

If you need further information on the position offered, please feel free to contact

Dr. Adrian Nievergelt

. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis and will be accepted before 06.12.2026.

For more information about the institute please check

here

.