Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d/x) in Microbial Systems Biophysics at Leipzig University – Germany

Summary

Leipzig University seeks a doctoral researcher for a project on microbial systems biophysics within the Division of Systems Biophysics of Microbial Dynamics. The candidate will investigate how Escherichia coli navigates mechanically complex environments that mimic the gut, using high‑throughput tracking, microfluidics, theory and simulations. The role includes independent experimental research, thesis work, documentation, publishing results and contributing to teaching. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in (bio‑)physics, (bio‑)engineering or a related field, possess programming skills (Matlab or Python), and have strong English proficiency (B2). The position is a 50 % fixed‑term contract for initially one year, remunerated according to TV‑L salary group 13, with benefits such as flexible hours, professional development and transport discounts.

Key Facts

Department	Division of Systems Biophysics of Microbial Dynamics, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics
Position Type	Doctoral Researcher (PhD)
Discipline	Biophysics
Research Area	Microbial Systems Biophysics
Degree Required	Master of Science (MSc) in (bio-)physics, (bio-)engineering or a related field
Salary	Salary group 13 TV-L
Funding	Salary (TV-L)
Contract Duration	Initially for 1 year (fixed-term)
Language	English (minimum B2)
Deadline	2026-11-01
Required Documents	Short letter of motivation (max. 1 page), Scientific CV, Names and contact information of two academic references, Academic transcripts (bachelor's and master's or comparable degrees)
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The project aims to understand how the gut bacterium Escherichia coli navigates mechanically complex environments that resemble its natural habitats, such as soil and the intestinal tract. By systematically varying bacterial and environmental properties, the researcher will identify physical mechanisms governing chemotactic navigation, explore the relationship between behavioural and material parameters, and examine intracellular information processing across different environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Independent experimental research on bacterial navigation
• Preparation of a doctoral thesis
• Thorough documentation of research activities
• Publication of results in conferences, workshops or journals
• Contributions to the Institute's teaching responsibilities

Required Skills

• Master's degree in (bio-)physics, (bio-)engineering or related field
• Proficiency in Matlab or Python
• Quantitative scientific data analysis
• Very good written and spoken English (B2)
• Excellent written communication
• Experience with microscopy and image processing (advantage)
• Interest in quantitative experimental interdisciplinary science
• Collaborative mindset and teamwork

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a master’s degree in biophysics, bio‑engineering or a related discipline, solid programming skills (Matlab or Python), experience in quantitative data analysis, and fluent English (minimum B2) are encouraged to apply. Candidates should demonstrate academic excellence, strong written communication, and an interest in interdisciplinary experimental science, as well as a collaborative mindset and teamwork abilities.

Benefits

• High degree of responsibility in a major university setting
• Professional English‑language work environment
• Friendly, supportive and motivated team
• Flexible working hours and mobile working
• Goal‑oriented staff development and continuing professional development opportunities
• Occupational health management services
• Remuneration according to TV‑L with annual special payment and occupational pension
• Excellent transport links and discounted public transport ticket
• Wide range of food options in university refectories and cafés

About the Employer

Leipzig University, founded in 1409, is one of Germany's largest universities with around 30,000 students and over 5,000 staff across 14 faculties. It is located in the vibrant city of Leipzig and emphasizes an innovative, international working environment, offering diverse career opportunities in research, teaching, knowledge and technology transfer, infrastructure and administration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

1 November 2026

What is the contract duration?

Initially for 1 year, fixed‑term position

Which documents must be submitted?

A short motivation letter, scientific CV, names and contact details of two academic references, and academic transcripts for all higher‑education degrees

What language proficiency is required?

Professional fluency in English at least at level B2