PhD Student - Biophysics, Physics, Biochemistry, Informatics Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main - Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences

About

The DFG Research Training Group iMOL (GRK 2566) at the Goethe University Frankfurt connects advanced imaging with molecular life sciences. Based at the Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS), iMOL brings together interdisciplinary research from biochemistry, physics, biology, and computer science.
Our doctoral program trains outstanding young researchers in cutting-edge microscopy (light and electron microscopy) and AI-driven image analysis, enabling them to investigate the molecular principles of life across spatial and temporal scales.
iMOL is part of the vibrant research landscape on Frankfurt’s Riedberg Campus, closely linked to the Max Planck Institutes, the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS), and the new SCALE Cluster of Excellence (launched 2026).
The Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main is one of the largest universities in Germany with around 41,000 students and with about 5,800 employees. Founded in 1914 by Frankfurt citizens and since 2008 once again proud of its foundation status Goethe University possesses a high degree of autonomy, modernity and professional diversity. As a comprehensive university, the Goethe University offers a total of 16 departments on five campuses and 155 degree programs along with an outstanding research reputation. Furthermore, the Goethe University is part of the Group of Rhine-Main-Universities (RMU).

Your tasks

• Conduct an independent PhD project of your choice (see iMOL projects on the website) at the interface of molecular life sciences and quantitative imaging
• Develop and apply microscopy and image analysis methods (e.g., Light- and Cryo-electron microscopy, super-resolution, AI-based quantitative approaches)
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary and international network of life scientists, physicists, and computer scientists
• Participate in the structured iMOL training program, which includes lectures, workshops, and the annual Winter School with leading international experts
• Present your results at conferences, retreats, and joint research meetings

Your profile

• Excellent Master’s or equivalent degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Physics, or Computer Science
• Strong scientific interest in imaging, quantitative analysis, and molecular mechanisms of life
• Practical experience or theoretical background in experimental or computational approaches
• High level of creativity, motivation, and willingness to work in interdisciplinary teams
• Very good English skills, both written and spoken

Your benefits

• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Frankfurt Centers for Advanced and Electron Microscopy (FCAM & FCEM), featuring Hesse’s first scanning electron microscope with a nanomanipulator
• A fully funded PhD position (E13 TV-G-U, 65%, 36 months)
• Generous funding for research consumables and scientific activities (conferences, workshops, training events)
• Structured qualification program including scientific, technical, and transferable skills
• Interdisciplinary supervision by leading scientists from Goethe University, Max Planck Institutes, and FIAS
• Excellent career perspectives — iMOL alumni have joined international research institutes, biotech companies, and founded their own startups

The salary grade is based on the job characteristics of the collective agreement applicable to Goethe University (TV-G-U). 

Your application

Please submit your complete application as a single PDF (including application form, CV, academic transcripts, and supporting documents as well as details of the projects you are most interested in pursuing as part of your doctoral studies) by February 28, 2026 to:

imol.coordinator@biophysik.org

Goethe University is committed to equal opportunity, family friendliness, and diversity. To strengthen the diversity of perspectives and lived experiences within the university, applications from individuals with a migration background and from members of other groups that have so far been underrepresented are particularly welcome. Applicants with a severe disability, or those legally equivalent, will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal suitability. If women are underrepresented in a faculty or administrative unit, they will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal qualifications. Please note that the application documents will not be returned. Costs incurred during the application process will not be reimbursed by Goethe University.