PhD position (m/f/d) in Experimental Molecular Biophysics of Protein Misfolding in Neurodegenerative Diseases (65% TV-L E13, 36 month).

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PhD position (m/f/d) in Experimental Molecular Biophysics of Protein Misfolding in Neurodegenerative Diseases (65% TV-L E13, 36 month).

The Kozuch group investigates the function of biomedically relevant (membrane) proteins with a special focus on electrostatic interactions that shape the formation of functional motifs. The methodological approach is based on a combination of (nanoscopic) vibrational spectroscopy supplemented by the use of model membrane systems, biochemical methods and computer-aided simulations. After completing his doctoral thesis in biophysical chemistry at the Technical University of Berlin, Dr. Jacek Kozuch did research as a postdoc at Stanford University (USA) and is now a junior research group leader within Experimental Molecular Biophysics at Freie Universität Berlin.

This DFG-funded project aims to research how specific interactions with membranes for folding or misfolding of, e.g., β-amyloid or islet amyloid polypeptide can lead to neurodegenerative diseases. For this purpose, surface-enhanced (SEIRAS) and AFM-based nano-infrared spectroscopy (nanoIR) in combination with model membrane systems will be used to track folding trajectories and control them through various boundary conditions.

We offer:

  • the opportunity for a PhD within the stimulating, interdisciplinary and

  international environment of Freie Universität Berlin,

  • the entry into fascinating and biomedically relevant topics of molecular

  Biophysics,

  • the use and further development of modern vibrational spectroscopic methods.

Requirements and Qualifications

Completed scientific university studies (diploma, master) in physics, chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry or in one of the related natural sciences.

We are looking for candidates with:

Experience with vibrational spectroscopic methods and/or atomic force microscopy; handling biological samples (e.g., proteins); willingness to work in an interdisciplinary environment; friendly and communicative demeanor; ability to work in a team; structured and independent work; knowledge of English; fun and fascination with science, especially in the field of molecular biophysics.

The area of ​​responsibility includes:

  • the independent conduction of this scientific project,
  • the biochemical preparation of protein/peptide samples and the construction of

  membrane model systems,

  • the implementation of nanoscopic and surface-enhanced infrared spectroscopy

  measurements,

  • participation in international conferences.

Selection process

Please contact Dr. Jacek Kozuch if more information is required (Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein! / +49 (0)30 838 64888) or visit the FU Berlin homepage: https://www.fu-berlin.de/universitaet/beruf-karriere/jobs/wiss/20_fb-physik/PH-KO5464-5.html

Applications (including cover letter, CV, certificates, one letter of recommendation as a single PDF) should be sent electronically by e-mail to Dr. Jacek Kozuch: Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein!">Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein!.