Website Ruhr University Bochum
The Department of Microbial Biochemistry conducts research on the discovery and development of biocatalysts from environmental samples. Our methods are experimental and bioinformatic in nature and focus on the direct determination of the activity of microbial enzymes in the metaproteome of environmental samples. Our research centers on hydrolytic enzymes with potential applications in chemical synthesis, environmental protection, and human medicine.
The Department of Biochemistry of Microorganisms at the Institute of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry of the Medical Faculty Bochum is seeking a Research Associate (m/f/d) in the field of enzyme development for a one-year project funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space on the transfer of scientific ideas to industry, starting on October 1, 2026.
Your tasks:
- Enzyme discovery: Zymogram-based enzyme identification from environmental samples
- Enzyme production: Heterologous expression of the identified enzymes in bacteria, purification by FPLC.
- Enzyme characterization: Biochemical determination of the enzyme parameters and optimal reaction conditions of the identified enzymes.
Your profile:
- Completed university degree (Master’s in Biochemistry or in a life science with a focus on protein biochemistry), preferably with above-average academic performance.
- Relevant experience in activity-based enzyme identification, including protein and DNA extraction from environmental samples and the preparation of zymograms in 1D or 2D format.
- A high level of commitment, motivation, independence and teamwork skills.
We offer:
- Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of personal responsibility
- A workplace in the heart of the vibrant Ruhr metropolitan region with its diverse cultural offerings.
- Employment at one of Germany’s largest universities, part of the University Alliance Ruhr
- Collaboration in a dedicated and appreciative team
Further information:
Employment is on a salaried basis and is governed by the collective agreement for public sector employees of the German states (TV-L).
Upon fulfillment of the personal and collective agreement requirements, the position will be classified in pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/ .
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the funding for the position comes exclusively from external third-party providers, the employees are not obligated to assume teaching duties.
5-day week
Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file. Subject to approval by the funding body.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international reach. The campus languages are German and English. Proficiency in at least one of these languages and a willingness to learn the other are required. RUB provides corresponding free language courses for its employees.
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. Upon request from an applicant, the Staff Council will guarantee its participation in the entire process. Please contact wpr@rub.de .
Contact persons for further information:
Prof. Dr. Lars Pfarrert, Tel.: +49 234 32 24585
Cristina Pintado, Tel.: +49 234 32 24943
Unfortunately, travel expenses, accommodation costs, loss of earnings, and other application costs for job interviews cannot be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application, quoting reference number 5964, by August 18, 2026, via our online application portal.
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