Job description: Our research group at Freie Universität Berlin is looking for a PhD candidate with a biochemistry, biophysics or structural biology background to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in cross-membrane lipid translocation and protein folding. The position is funded by the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation. Our group (
https://www.physik.fu-berlin.de/einrichtungen/ag/ag-joseph/Research/index.html) aims to understand the mechanisms and principles of lipid translocation and protein folding underlying membrane biogenesis in bacteria using a combination of biochemistry, biophysics, electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy techniques. We develop and apply in situ ESR spectroscopy methods to characterize the structure and heterogeneity of these membrane protein complexes in intact cells and native membranes. As a complementary approach, the group investigates the purified complexes using ESR spectroscopy and single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) in vitro. This integrated approach enables us to elucidate the structural, dynamic and mechanistic principles governing the functionality of these membrane protein complexes, which are highly sought-after targets for new drugs.
PhD position in membrane protein biochemistry / biophysics
Activities and responsibilities
The successful candidate will independently design and perform experiments to investigate the structural and dynamic aspects of one of the key membrane protein complexes involved in membrane biogenesis in Gram-negative bacteria. The candidate will perform purification, site-specific labeling, biochemical/functional characterization of the protein complex and investigate the structure and heterogeneity using advanced ESR spectroscopy techniques and cryo-EM. Our highly interdisciplinary, collaborative, and goal-oriented environment requires a creative team-oriented individual. The candidate is expected to mentor junior students and present results at national and international scientific conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Qualification profile
Completed Masters degree in Physics, Biophysics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field. A solid background in protein expression and purification or pulsed electron spin resonance spectroscopy and willingness to learn the other one is desired. Excellent communication skills in English and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
We offer
The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (E13, TV-L FU).
For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Benesh Joseph (email / 030-838-58916). All application should be addressed as an e-mail to Prof. Dr. Benesh Joseph: email or postal to
Freie Universität Berlin
Fachbereich Physik
Institut für Experimentalphysik
Herrn Prof. Dr. Benesh Joseph
Arnimallee 14
Room 0.4.39
14195 Berlin (Dahlem)