PhD Researcher in Molecular Plant Physiology (m/f/d)

About the University

Founded in 1527, Philipps-University Marburg offers award-winning teaching to approximately 22,000 students and conducts outstanding research addressing significant contemporary scientific topics.

Position Overview

The Department of Biology, Molecular Plant Physiology division, invites applications for a fixed-term part-time (50% working hours) qualification position aimed at completing a doctoral degree. The appointment is limited to a maximum of three years, adjusted for any prior qualifying periods. Salary is classified under pay grade 13 of the Hessian state collective agreement.

Primary Responsibilities

• Providing scientific services in research projects and teaching activities.
• Developing a research project focusing on the interaction between sugar and defense signaling in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, emphasizing signal metabolites such as trehalose-6-phosphate.
• Characterizing Arabidopsis mutants through biochemical, physiological, and molecular biology methods.
• Performing quantitative analysis of transcript levels of genes involved in signaling networks and metabolic pathways.
• Conducting spatially and temporally resolved reporter gene analyses.
• Quantitative measurement of metabolites related to salicylic acid metabolism and primary metabolism using UHPLC, ion chromatography, and microtiter plate-based optical and fluorometric assays.
• Participating in undergraduate and research-oriented master's teaching activities.

Qualifications and Profile

• Completed scientific university degree (Diploma, Master's, or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Final thesis with a molecular biological-genetic, plant physiological, or bioanalytical emphasis.
• Good command of English, both spoken and written.
• Creative, analytical, and critical thinking abilities with a structured and independent working style.
• Willingness and skill to develop and contribute to research ideas collaboratively.
• Practical experience in confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), metabolite analytics via HPLC and plate reader assays, or histological studies of plant-fungus interactions is advantageous.

Additional Information and Benefits

• Support for doctoral qualification within a cooperative research group with regular scientific exchange and structured PhD training opportunities.
• Access to professional development resources such as the Marburg Research Academy, International Office, and university didactic services.
• Eligible employees can utilize the Hessian state ticket for free public transportation throughout the state.
• Company pension scheme (VBL) included.
• Family service at the university provides support, guidance, and counseling to assist with work-life balance for employees with family responsibilities.