Phagocytosis is a crucial mechanism for clearing microbial pathogens. However, the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus disrupts the progression of phagocytosis by hindering phagosome maturation and initiating infection. A deeper understanding of the pathogen-induced reprogramming of phagosomes – from a degradative to a non-degradative pathway – will aid in developing novel phagosome-based anti-infective strategies. In this project, the successful applicant will investigate critical aspects of how fungal pathogens manipulate host cell phagocytosis, using all kind of molecular biological, cell biological, microscopic, and proteomic methods.

The project is funded by the Free State of Thuringia with means of the European Social Fund (ESF).

Candidate’s profile:

• PhD in life sciences (e.g. biology, biochemistry, or microbiology) or a related discipline, preferably within three years of PhD; candidates in the final stages of obtaining their degree are also eligible to apply
• A track record of excellent and topically relevant scholarly contributions
• Experimental background in one or more of the following subjects is beneficial: molecular biology, microbiology, infection biology, immunology, and cell biology
• Practical experience in cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, and fungal genetics is an advantage
• Furthermore, the applicant should be able to perform team-oriented as well as independent work
• Very good communication skills in English, both written and spoken

We offer:

• The successful candidate will be hosted in the junior research group Phagosome Biology and Engineering (https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/phagosome-biology-and-engineering.html), led by Dr. Leijie Jia (https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/staff-details.html?member=939), and the Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology (https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/molekulare-und-angewandte-mikrobiologie.html), led by Prof. Axel Brakhage (https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/mam-staff-details.html?member=1).
• Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees).
• We offer a multifaceted scientific project with excellent technical facilities, a place in a committed team, as well as strong scientific collaborations.
• The Leibniz-HKI is embedded in the outstanding scientific environment of the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-the-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups.

Further information:
Dr. Leijie Jia (https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/staff-details.html?member=939) | +49 3641 532-1187 | career@leibniz-hki.de

Applications:
Leibniz-HKI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law will receive consideration for employment.

Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, a CV containing a complete list of publications, a brief statement of research experiences, a certificate of study / transcript of records, and the addresses of two possible referees and should be submitted via the Leibniz-HKI online application system: https://jobs.hki-jena.de/jobs/Postdoctoral-Researcher-mfdiv-Host-Pathogen-Interaction-eng-f563.html

The deadline for the advertisement is December 15, 2024, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology
Adolf-Reichwein-Straße 23 | 07745 Jena