PhD Position in Bottom-Up Artificial Cell Research on the Single-DNA Level, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel

Summary

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers a PhD position in bottom‑up artificial cell research, combining single‑molecule biophysics and synthetic biology. The role involves developing microfluidic platforms and high‑resolution fluorescence microscopy to construct programmable DNA systems. Candidates should hold an MSc or BSc in biology, chemistry, physics, or a related exact science, possess good English communication skills, and have experience or strong interest in molecular biology, fluorescence microscopy, microfluidics, or Python‑based image processing. The position is a full‑time temporary contract for two years with a salary up to USD 2,500 per month. Applications are submitted via the university’s online HR portal before 28 February 2027.

Key Facts

Position Type	PhD Position
Discipline	Medical Sciences
Research Area	Single-Molecule Biophysics, Synthetic Biology
Degree Required	MSc or BSc
Salary	Up to USD 2,500 per month, initially for two years
Funding	Not funded by an EU programme
Contract Duration	two years
Language	English
Deadline	2027-02-28
Employer Address	Hebrew University of Jerusalem Safra Campus, Givat Ram Jerusalem 91904, Israel

About the Project

The project aims to build artificial cells from the bottom up by integrating single‑molecule biophysics techniques with synthetic biology. Using microfluidic devices and high‑resolution fluorescence microscopy, the lab seeks to create programmable, on‑chip DNA systems to explore fundamental biological processes and develop novel nanobiotechnological applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments in microfluidics and fluorescence microscopy
• Develop and apply Python‑based image processing pipelines
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members across engineering, biology, chemistry, and physics
• Contribute to the construction of programmable DNA systems for artificial cell research

Required Skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Good written and oral English communication
• Experience or strong interest in molecular biology
• Experience or strong interest in fluorescence microscopy
• Experience or strong interest in microfluidics
• Experience or strong interest in Python‑based image processing

Who Should Apply

Applicants with an MSc or BSc in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, engineering, computer science or related exact sciences, who are motivated to work on synthetic biology and single‑molecule biophysics, and who have good written and oral English skills.

Benefits

• Up to USD 2,500 per month for the initial two‑year contract

About the Employer

Hebrew University of Jerusalem, located on the Safra Campus in Givat Ram, Jerusalem, Israel, conducts research in medical sciences, single‑molecule biophysics, and synthetic biology. The university hosts a lab that integrates physics, chemistry, and biology to advance bottom‑up artificial cell research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 28 February 2027.

What is the salary for this position?

Up to USD 2,500 per month for the initial two years.

Where is the work location?

Hebrew University of Jerusalem Safra Campus, Givat Ram, Jerusalem, Israel.

What qualifications are required?

An MSc or BSc in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, engineering, computer science or equivalent.

How do I apply?

Submit your application through the online HR listing page on the Hebrew University website.