PhD Position in Polyphosphate Metabolism in Archaea, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany

Summary

The University of Duisburg‑Essen’s Faculty of Chemistry is offering a PhD position in the Molecular Enzyme Technology and Biochemistry group, led by Prof. Dr. Bettina Siebers. The project, funded by the DFG, investigates polyphosphate metabolism and phosphate homeostasis in the archaeal model Sulfolobus acidocaldarius using biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and multi‑omics approaches. The 36‑month contract provides a TV‑L 13 salary (38,560 €‑54,807 € gross) and includes flexible working hours, home‑office options, extensive training, and family‑friendly benefits. Applicants must hold a Master or Diplom in a related life‑science discipline, possess strong English skills, and have experience with molecular and protein‑biochemistry techniques. Applications are due by 5 November 2026.

Key Facts

Employer	University of Duisburg-Essen
Department	Fakultät für Chemie, Fachgebiet Molkulare Enzymtechnologie und Biochemie
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Biochemistry
Research Area	Polyphosphate metabolism and phosphate homeostasis in Archaea
Degree Required	Master/Diplom
Salary	TV-L 13 (brutto 38.560 € – 54.807 €)
Funding	DFG‑funded research project
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	Telefon 0201/183-6602, E‑Mail [email protected]

About the Project

The DFG‑funded project aims to elucidate the role of polyphosphate (PolyP) in the archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius. By constructing genetically modified strains, characterising PolyP‑related proteins, and integrating biochemical, physiological and multi‑omics data, the research will uncover the molecular mechanisms of PolyP metabolism and its connection to cellular phosphate (Pi) homeostasis under various growth and stress conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Construct and characterize genetically modified Sulfolobus acidocaldarius strains
• Biochemically and functionally characterize PolyP‑metabolism proteins
• Investigate protein‑protein and protein‑PolyP interactions
• Quantitatively analyse PolyP metabolism under different physiological conditions
• Integrate biochemical and physiological data to clarify PolyP’s role in Archaea
• Study interactions between PolyP metabolism and Pi‑homeostasis in collaboration with a complementary PhD project
• Present results at national and international conferences and publish in scientific journals
• Participate in teaching and general group tasks

Required Skills

• Molecular biology techniques
• Microbiological methods
• Protein biochemistry, including purification and enzyme characterization
• Experience with archaeal or extremophile systems (optional)
• Quantitative physiological analysis
• Strong teamwork and communication
• Excellent written and spoken English

Who Should Apply

Candidates with a Master or Diplom in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology or a related field, who have solid experience in molecular and protein‑biochemistry methods, good English proficiency, and an interest in archaeal metabolism and polyphosphate research.

Benefits

• Competitive TV‑L 13 salary with annual bonus
• Flexible / sliding working hours and home‑office possibilities
• 30 days of vacation plus additional holidays on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve
• Extensive sports and health offers, including university sports
• Mensa and cafeteria services on campus
• Corporate benefits and discounts
• Family‑friendly services such as childcare support
• Access to a broad range of further training and continuing education

About the Employer

The University of Duisburg‑Essen is a large research university in the Ruhr metropolitan area. Its Faculty of Chemistry, with 27 professorships and over 240 scientific staff, is one of the biggest chemistry faculties in the German‑speaking region. The faculty emphasizes interdisciplinary research, offers extensive teaching facilities, and promotes diversity and equality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range?

The gross annual salary is between 38,560 € and 54,807 € (TV‑L 13).

When is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 5 November 2026.

What language proficiency is required?

Applicants need very good English skills in spoken and written form.