Job Advertisement HKI-35/2025

The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology(Leibniz-HKI) investigates the pathobiology of human-pathogenic fungi and identifies targets for the development of novel natural product-based antibiotics. The Junior Research Group RNA Biology of Fungal Infections invites talented candidates to apply for a position as

Doctoral Researcher (f/div/m) in Host-Fungal RNA Biology

The position will begin as soon as possible, with the initial contract lasting 3 year, with extension possible.

Research Areas: Molecular Biology, RNA Biochemistry, Microbiology
This project is part of the Junior Research Group RNA Biology of Fungal Infections, which brings together the study of pathogenic fungi and RNA biology to better understand and treat fungal infections.

The field of study will include:
The successful candidate will investigate mechanisms of the host response to fungal pathogens through the lens of RNA. The main topics of the project are:

• Definition of host extracellular RNA subsets during fungal infection.
• Investigation of tRNA-derived RNAs in the host extracellular space during infection.
• Optimization of emerging extracellular RNA sequencing approaches.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, or related disciplines. Candidates about to obtain their degree are welcome to apply.
• Strong experimental background in molecular biology, microbiology, and/or biochemistry.
• Experience working with fungal pathogens, RNA biochemistry, and/or extracellular vesicle biology (or willingness to learn) is a plus.
• The candidate should be willing and able to work in an international, interdisciplinary research team.
• Very good communication skills in English.

We offer:
The successful candidate will be hosted in the Junior Research Group RNA Biology of Fungal Infections led by Dr. Matthew G. Blango . The Leibniz-HKI is embedded in the outstanding scientific environment of the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups. The doctoral researcher will be supported in applying for inclusion as a member of the Jena School of Microbial Communication .

Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees). As an equal opportunity employer, the Leibniz-HKI is committed to increasing the percentage of female scientists and therefore especially encourages them to apply.

For further information

Please contact Dr. Matthew Blango | career@leibniz-hki.de

Applications

Leibniz-HKI is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law, will receive consideration for employment.

Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, a CV, a certificate of study/transcript of records, the addresses of three possible referees, and should be submitted via Leibniz-HKI online application system. The deadline for applications is July 31th, 2025 , but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
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