The Cluster of Excellence „Balance of the Microverse“ of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany, combines expertise in life, material, optical and computational sciences to elevate microbiome studies from descriptive to hypothesis-driven and functional analyses. Our core mission is to elucidate fundamental principles of the interactions and functions in microbial communities in diverse habitats ranging from oceans and groundwater to plant and human hosts. We aim to identify the shared characteristics of disturbed or polluted ecosystems as well as infectious diseases on the microbiome level, and develop strategies for their remediation by targeted interventions. The affiliated early career program of the Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) offers an ambitious, structured and interdisciplinary post-graduate training based on top-level fundamental research.

The Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse invites applications for
4 Postdoctoral Researcher Positions

Postdoctoral Researcher “Microbial Ecology” (m/f/d)

Postdoctoral Researcher “Eco/Evolutionary Modelling” (m/f/d)

Postdoctoral Researcher “Microbiome Modelling” (m/f/d)

Postdoctoral Researcher “Innate Immunity” (m/f/d)

We expect:

• A PhD in natural sciences (Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics or closely related fields). Candidates in the final stages of obtaining their degree are eligible to apply
• Desirable methodological skills: excellent background in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, immunology and/or microbiology, hands-on knowledge of analytical methods; or theoretical/computational modelling
• Highly motivated individuals with an interest in joining one of the interdisciplinary research areas of the Microverse Cluster
• The abililty to work creatively and independently towards developing your own research project
• A collaborative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the dynamic Microverse community
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken

We offer:

• A highly communicative atmosphere within a scientific network providing top-level research facilities
• A comprehensive mentoring program and soft skill courses for early career researchers
• Jena – City of Science: a young and lively town with a vibrant local cultural agenda

The positions will be funded through the Excellence Strategy of the German federal and state governments. The Friedrich Schiller University Jena and the Jena University Hospital are equal opportunity employers and part-time contracts can be discussed. Disabled persons with comparable qualifications will receive preferential status.

Please visit www.microverse-cluster.de for more details on these postdoctoral researcher positions, required documents and the application process.

Application deadline: 17 October 2021