PhD position in microbial evolutionary genetics

Your tasks:

The project aims to investigate the evolutionary dynamics of bacterial plasmids and their role in microbial adaptation and horizontal gene transfer.

• Conduct research in the field of microbial evolutionary genetics, with a focus on the evolution of prokaryotic plasmids
• Plan, perform, and analyze molecular biology and microbial genetics experiments
• Construct and characterize genetically modified bacterial strains and establish experimental systems for studying plasmid evolution (e.g., see DOI: 10.64898/2026.03.13.711586)
• Design, conduct, and analyze experimental evolution studies.Process, statistically analyze, and interpret experimental data
• Present research findings at scientific conferences and publish results in international peer-reviewed journals
• Complete a PhD thesis

Your profile:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline
• Knowledge of bacterial genetics and microbial evolution
• Experience in the design and implementation of molecular genetic experiments, including recombinant – DNA techniques, plasmid engineering, and bacteria/fungal strain construction

Soft skills:

• Strong motivation and scientific curiosity
• Independent, organized, and rigorous approach to scientific research
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to analyze complex scientific questions critically and systematically
• Willingness to learn and apply new experimental and theoretical methods
• Ability and motivation to conduct independent scientific research as part of a doctoral project

Beneficial:

• Experience in bacterial genetics, plasmid biology, horizontal gene transfer, or experimental evolution
• Experience in planning and conducting independent molecular biology or microbial genetics projects
• Experience in establishing, optimizing, or troubleshooting experimental methods
• Ability to understand, adapt, and critically evaluate molecular biology and microbial genetics techniques
• Background in evolutionary biology, population genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, or biostatistics
• Written and spoken English at a minimum of Level B2

We offer:

• A varied, independent, and diverse role in a committed, innovative environment with the opportunity to shape change
• Salary aligned with the collective agreement, including annual bonus
• A good work-life balance thanks to the option of flexible working hours
• Employee benefits (e.g., cafeteria, university sports)
• 30 days of paid vacation per year
• Discounted public transportation pass
• A company pension plan with high employer contribution
• A secure job with the state and a university environment with a lively and international atmosphere
• Numerous opportunities for further training

Contact details:

Prof. Dr. Tal Dagan
Institut of General Microbiology
Tel. +49431 880 5712