Fachbereich Physik - Institut für Experimentalphysik AG JosephResearch assistant (praedoc) (m/f/d) position in biophysics / ESR spectroscopy of membrane proteins with 65%part-time job limited to 30.09.2028 salary grade (Entgeltgruppe) 13 TV-L FU reference code: BIF_D2025 Bewerbungsende: 28.04.2025

Our group aims to understand the mechanisms and principles of lipid translocation and protein folding underlying membrane biogenesis in bacteria using a combination of biochemistry, biophysics, and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy techniques. We develop and apply in situ ESR spectroscopy methods to characterize the structure and heterogeneity of these membrane protein complexes in intact cells and native membranes. As a complementary approach, the group investigates the purified complexes using ESR spectroscopy and single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) in vitro. Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art spectrometers operating in the range of 4 – 94 GHz as well as modern instruments for membrane protein biochemistry. This integrated approach enables us to elucidate the structural, dynamic, and mechanistic principles governing the functionality of these membrane protein complexes, which are highly sought-after targets for new drugs.

Job description:
Our research group at Freie Universität Berlin is seeking a PhD candidate with a background in biophysics or biomolecular spectroscopy to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in cross-membrane substrate translocation. The successful candidate will independently design and conduct experiments to explore the structural and dynamic aspects of a key membrane protein complex. The candidate will be responsible for the purification, site-specific labeling, and biochemical/functional characterization of the protein complex, as well as investigating its structure and heterogeneity using advanced ESR spectroscopy techniques (both in situ and in vitro) and cryo-EM. Our highly interdisciplinary, collaborative, and goal-oriented environment requires a creative, team-oriented individual. The candidate is expected to mentor junior students, present results at national and international scientific conferences, and publish in peer-reviewed journals. This position is funded through the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation.

Requirements:
Master’s degree in Physics.

Desirable:

Master’s degree preferably including a thesis focused on protein biophysics that utilizes spectroscopic techniques.
Familiarity with protein expression and purification as well as biomolecular spectroscopy is preferred. Excellent communication skills in English and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are essential.

Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents, indicating the reference code, in PDF format (preferably as one document) to Prof. Dr. Benesh Joseph: benesh.joseph@fu-berlin.de or postal to

Freie Universität Berlin

Fachbereich Physik

Institut für Experimentalphysik

AG Joseph

Prof. Dr. Benesh Joseph

Arnimallee 14

14195 Berlin (Dahlem)

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