Job Description

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PhD Position Membrane Biophysics

Your workplace

We are seeking enthusiastic candidates for a PhD position in our lab specializing in cutting-edge theoretical and computational membrane biophysics. Our research delves into the complex interplay between the composition, structure, organization, and dynamics of cell membranes and its cellular function. We are located at the Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, a vibrant academic center with a focus on immunobiology and home to the National High-Performance Computing Center NHR@FAU. We are member of NHR@FAU and of the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) Physics and Medicine.

The Research Project:

Unraveling the Membrane-Selective Mechanism of Lugdunin: Insights into Specificity for Gram-Positive Bacteria and Antimicrobial Activity



The project aims to investigate the membrane-selective mechanism of Lugdunin, a cyclic heptapeptide produced by Staphylococcus lugdunensis. Lugdunin exhibits remarkable activity against multi-resistant gram-positive bacteria while showing no toxic effects on gram-negative bacteria or human cells. Previous studies suggest that Lugdunin disrupts the membrane potential of pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus by making the membrane permeable to protons—a mechanism that remains only partially understood.



Interdisciplinary Approach to Molecular Mechanism Research

The specificity of Lugdunin for gram-positive bacteria is hypothesized to result from their unique membrane lipid composition, which facilitates the peptide’s integration and antimicrobial activity. To unravel this mechanism, the study combines in collaboration with Prof. Claudia Steinem’s group in Göttingen cutting-edge experimental and computational methods. Together, the teams investigate the interactions of Lugdunin with membranes that mimic the characteristics of gram-positive, gram-negative, and eukaryotic cells.



The project aims to identify the molecular interactions and structural determinants underlying the antimicrobial activity and membrane selectivity of Lugdunin. These findings could pave the way for the development of novel antimicrobial peptides and innovative approaches to combat infections caused by multi-resistant bacteria.



Collaborative Research Strengthens Antimicrobial Science

The collaboration between FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and the University of Göttingen represents a significant step toward addressing fundamental questions in antimicrobial research. The DFG’s funding highlights the importance of this project in the global fight against multi-resistant bacterial infections while offering new therapeutic perspectives.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a PDF document comprising a cover letter, CV, and certificates.



Our benefits



Regular promotion to the next level and increase in salary pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement for the public service of the German Länder (TV-L) or remuneration pursuant to the Bavarian Public Servants Remuneration Act (BayBesG) plus an additional annual bonus 30 days annual leave at five working days per week with additional free days on December 24 and 31 Occupational pension scheme and asset accumulation savings scheme Excellent support during the academic qualification phase Structured doctoral degree programs Systematic career development in collaboration with the Graduate Center Thorough onboarding process with a dedicated team Joint team activities Subsidized food and drinks in our student restaurants Place of work within comfortable walking distance of public transport Family-friendly environment with childcare options, also during school holidays Flexible working hours A wide range of training courses and opportunities for professional development Active health management

Your Tasks

Research



Your Profile



Educational Background: Ideally, you hold a master’s degree in bio-/physics, theoretical/computational chemistry, life sciences, or a related field. Interdisciplinary Interest: Strong passion for interdisciplinary projects and collaboration with medical and immunology groups. Communication Skills: High proficiency in English and effective communication skills. Team Player: Ability to thrive in a collaborative and dynamic research environment.

Supplementary description

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Application deadline



2025-09-30



Title



PhD Position Membrane Biophysics



Job start date



2025-11-01



Payment



E13



Working time



part time



Weekly working hours



30



Temporary Contract yes



Further general conditions



Work location



Staudtstr. 4

91058 Erlangen



Contact



Rainer Böckmann

Tel.:

09131/85-25409

Mobil:

rainer.boeckmann@fau.de



Please apply via our online platform instead of sending applications by post or e-mail. Applications sent to us by post will not be returned.



With regard to the personal data collected during the application process, please refer to our information pursuant to Art. 13 and 14 of the General Data Protection Regulations at



www.fau.de



. FAU is a modern, cosmopolitan and family-friendly employer. We welcome your application irrespective of your age, gender, cultural and social background, religion, ideological beliefs, disability or sexual identity. Applicants with a disability or who are considered to be equivalent to people with a disability will be given preference provided their aptitude, performance and capability are essentially the same. We are happy to offer part-time positions, provided a job-sharing arrangement means that the tasks in the area are fully covered.



If you wish, you may invite a person responsible for ensuring equal rights to accompany you to the job interview without incurring any disadvantages.



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