PhD Position in Phosphate Homeostasis in Archaea, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany

Summary

The University of Duisburg-Essen invites applications for a PhD position in the Faculty of Chemistry, Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry group. The project, funded by the DFG, investigates phosphate (Pi) homeostasis and polyphosphate metabolism in the archaeal model Sulfolobus acidocaldarius using biochemical, genetic, physiological and multi‑omics approaches. The 36‑month contract offers a TV‑L 13 salary, flexible working hours, extensive training, family‑friendly services and opportunities to present research at conferences. Candidates must hold a master’s degree (or Diplom) in a related life‑science discipline, possess strong English skills and have experience with molecular biology, microbiology or biochemistry methods. Applications are due by 5 November 2026.

Key Facts

Employer	University of Duisburg-Essen
Department	Fakultät für Chemie, Fachgebiet Molekulare Enzymtechnologie und Biochemie
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Biochemistry
Research Area	Phosphate homeostasis and polyphosphate metabolism in Archaea
Degree Required	Master's degree (or Diplom)
Salary	TV-L 13 (gross €38,560 – €54,807)
Funding	Salary (TV-L 13)
Contract Duration	36 months
Language	English
Deadline	2026-11-05
Required Documents	Cover letter, Curriculum vitae, Supporting documents
Employer Address	Forsthausweg 2 (Duisburg campus); Universitätsstraße 2 (Essen campus), 47057 (Duisburg); 45141 (Essen), North Rhine-Westphalia
Employer Contact	Phone: 0201/183-6602; Email: [email protected]

About the Project

The project aims to elucidate the mechanisms of phosphate uptake, regulation and cellular response to varying phosphate availability in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, and to determine how these processes interact with polyphosphate metabolism. By constructing genetically modified strains, performing physiological and multi‑omics analyses, and integrating transcriptomic, proteomic and physiological data, the work will identify regulatory networks governing Pi homeostasis and its link to polyphosphate pathways.

Key Responsibilities

• Construct and characterize genetically modified Sulfolobus acidocaldarius strains
• Investigate phosphate uptake and homeostasis under different growth conditions
• Functionally characterize proteins involved in phosphate transport and regulation
• Analyze cellular responses to phosphate limitation using physiological and multi‑omics approaches
• Integrate transcriptomic, proteomic and physiological data to identify regulatory networks
• Study interactions between phosphate homeostasis and polyphosphate metabolism in collaboration with a complementary PhD project
• Present results at national and international conferences and publish in scientific journals
• Participate in teaching activities and general group tasks

Required Skills

• Molecular biology techniques
• Microbiological cultivation and physiological characterization of microorganisms
• Biochemical methods
• Experience with genetic manipulation of archaea (advantageous)
• Interest in multi‑omics approaches and quantitative data analysis
• Basic bioinformatics skills (optional)
• Strong independent and structured work style
• Teamwork and communication skills
• Excellent written and spoken English

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a master’s degree (or Diplom) in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, biotechnology or a related field, who have solid laboratory experience, good English proficiency, and an interest in archaeal metabolism, phosphate regulation and multi‑omics data integration should apply.

Benefits

• DFG‑funded research project with a broad methodological spectrum
• Interdisciplinary environment combining biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, physiology and systems biology
• Close collaboration with a complementary PhD project
• Support for scientific qualification and conference presentation
• Extensive training and further‑education opportunities
• Cafeteria and Mensa services on campus
• Corporate Benefits discounts
• Family‑friendly university culture (childcare, care advice)
• Excellent public transport connections and free parking
• Flexible / sliding working hours and possibility of home office
• 30 days vacation plus additional days on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
• Fair remuneration according to TV‑L, including annual special payment
• Comprehensive sports and health offers

About the Employer

The University of Duisburg‑Essen’s Faculty of Chemistry is one of the largest chemistry faculties in the German‑speaking region, comprising 27 professorships and over 240 scientific staff. The Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry group, led by Prof. Dr. Bettina Siebers, focuses on environmental microbiology and biotechnology, investigating archaeal metabolism with modern multi‑omics and systems biology methods. The university emphasizes diversity, innovation and a supportive environment in the Ruhr metropolitan area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the contract?

36 months.

When is the application deadline?

2026-11-05.

What language proficiency is required?

Good English skills in speaking and writing.

What is the salary range?

TV‑L 13 gross €38,560 – €54,807.