Research Associate position in the project, “project will focus on the stereospecific production of platform chemicals using Cupriavidus necator”
Institute for Technical Microbiology Remuneration EG 13 TV-L ID: 2226WV7 Start of employment: as soon as possible Application deadline 30.01.2026 Scope part-time (75%) and fixed-term employment until 31.12.2028 The project will focus on the stereospecific production of platform chemicals using Cupriavidus necator, offering a diverse variety of methods and devices. First, bioinformatic analysis of transcriptomes will be conducted to identify target genes, followed by genetic engineering to create the desired knock-out mutants. Finally, these mutants and the resulting products will then be characterized in continuously operated bioreactors using state-of-the-art analytical techniques such as UHPLC, Headspace GC and TOC to accurately identify and quantify the products. The Institute of Technical Microbiology is an open and international institute. Together with one technician, around 20 scientific staff members, and a changing group of students, we conduct research and teaching in the fields of sustainable biotechnology, bio-based resources, and microbial wastewater treatment. We place particular importance on involving all team members in the various workflows and decision-making processes, and on fostering a collegial, respectful, and supportive working environment. YOUR TASKS Design and engineering of Cupriavidus necator strains for stereospecific production of chemicals Transcriptomic data analysis to identify and prioritize metabolic and regulatory target genes Construction and characterization of genetically modified strains using molecular biology tools Development and selection of biofilm-forming strains in continuous biofilm reactor systems Long-term evaluation of strain stability and production performance in bioreactor cultivations YOUR PROFILE Requirements Completed scientific university studies, in particular in the subject Microbiology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry Desired knowledge and personal skills Strong background in microbial biotechnology or metabolic engineering Proven track record of independently performing molecular cloning, gene deletion strategies, and complex microbial strain engineering Familiarity with transcriptomics, sequencing data analysis, or bioinformatics workflows Experience with bioreactor cultivation and microbial physiology Excellent written and verbal English skills required OUR OFFER A job in an interesting, friendly and appreciative working environment Intensive induction/ onboarding 30 vacation per year (5-days a week) Good public transport connections Comprehensive training and further education programs At the heart of TU Hamburg’s research, teaching and transfer of technology is the guiding principle of developing technology for people. The TU Hamburg sees itself in this context as a family-friendly and sustainable university with high performance and quality standards that strives for excellence in all its research fields. Interdisciplinarity, innovation, regionality and internationality are binding principles in our actions. With currently around 8.000 students, 110 professors and 1.650 employees, the TU Hamburg is characterised by short decision-making processes and close cooperation between the board, the institutes, the deans of studies, the research areas and the administration. We identify ourselves with a modern leadership culture and cultivate appreciative interaction. For further information please contact Lukas Kneuer, Tel.-Nr. +49 40 30601 3963, Email: lukas.kneuer@tuhh.de. We value diversity, therefore all applications are welcome, regardless of gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, nationality, age, religion and belief, disability, sexual orientation and identity or social background. The TU Hamburg stands for equal opportunities as well as appreciative and respectful cooperation. Please send your complete application documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae in table form, proof of completed training and/or university degree, job references or certificates of employment) via the online application system. Notice for severely disabled persons and people with equal status. Notice for graduates of foreign educational qualifications: Please submit proof of all obtained university degrees and, if available, the recognition of your educational qualifications in Germany (e.g. anabin excerpts and/or acknowledgement of previous employers). Apply Now
