PhD Position in Fungal Natural Products, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany

Summary

The Friedrich‑Schiller‑Universität Jena invites applications for a part‑time (65%) PhD position in fungal natural products, starting on 01 March 2027 or later. The role is embedded in the Institute for Pharmacy, Chair of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, and is funded by a third‑party project investigating enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of psilocybin and related indole alkaloids. The candidate will characterize enzymes biochemically, generate variants, collaborate with an international partner, supervise undergraduate theses, and aim for a doctoral qualification and scientific publications. Remuneration follows the TV‑L public‑service pay scale (Entgeltgruppe E13) with additional annual special payment and 30 days of vacation plus two extra holidays.

Key Facts

About the Project

The project is a third‑party funded investigation of fungal enzymes that catalyze the biosynthesis of psilocybin and related indole alkaloids. It combines molecular biology, biochemistry, natural‑product chemistry and analytical chemistry to elucidate biosynthetic pathways, characterize enzyme activities, and create enzyme variants. Close collaboration with an international partner and supervision of bachelor, diploma or master theses are integral parts, with the ultimate goal of achieving a PhD and publishing the results in scientific journals.

Key Responsibilities

• Research on fungal enzymes for psilocybin biosynthesis in a third‑party funded project
• Biochemically characterize target enzymes and produce enzyme variants
• Collaborate closely with an international project partner
• Supervise related bachelor, diploma, or master theses
• Work towards a doctoral qualification and publish scientific articles

Required Skills

• Broad methodological expertise in protein biochemistry and natural‑product chemistry
• Knowledge of structural biology or mycology is desirable
• Strong interest in basic research and high motivation
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Good written and spoken German and English

Who Should Apply

Applicants who hold a state examination in pharmacy or are close to completing a master’s degree in biochemistry, chemistry, biotechnology or a related biological discipline are encouraged to apply. Candidates should possess a broad methodological background in protein biochemistry and natural‑product chemistry, have knowledge of structural biology or mycology, demonstrate strong motivation for basic research, and be proficient in German and English, both written and spoken.

Benefits

• Research at the interface of mycology, biochemistry and natural‑product chemistry
• Excellent laboratory equipment and infrastructure
• Collaboration with external institutes in Jena and international partners
• Salary according to TV‑L Entgeltgruppe E13 with annual special payment
• 30 days vacation plus two additional holidays on 24 Dec and 31 Dec

About the Employer

Friedrich‑Schiller‑Universität Jena is described as a dynamic, innovation‑strong university centrally located in Germany. It hosts around 17,000 students and 10,000 staff, fostering interdisciplinary development through strong links with research institutions, innovative companies and cultural organizations. The university’s profile emphasizes excellence in research and teaching, highlighted by its Light‑Life‑Liberty focus areas, and positions Jena as an internationally networked science and future city.