The Absmeier group (https://www.bcp.fu-berlin.de/en/chemie/biochemie/research-groups/absmeier-group/index.html) is interested in the regulation of mRNA translation and decay. We recombinantly produce proteins and protein complexes (mainly in bacteria and insect cells) and use them for functional studies and in vitro reconstitution of biological systems (such as in vitro translation and deadenylation). Translation and mRNA decay complexes are subsequently analyzed by an integrative structural biology approach (cryogenic electron microscopy, macromolecular crystallography, in silico structure prediction (AlphaFold)).

Job description:
A PhD position (50%) is available in the Absmeier research group, which will be increased to 65% through third-party funding until June 30, 2028 (end of the third-party funded project). The project focuses on investigating the role of protein cofactors in mRNA translation and degradation, with the goal of uncovering the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Main responsibilities:
* Recombinant expression and purification of proteins
* In vitro assays for functional characterization of protein–protein and protein–RNA interactions
* Structural analyses of protein complexes
* Functional studies of protein variants in cellular systems

In addition to research, the PhD candidate is expected to contribute to teaching activities and to actively participate in the scientific exchange within the research group.

The position entails the opportunity to do a doctorate.
 
Requirements:
Graduate degree (Master) in biochemistry or related subjects
 
Desirable:
Desired qualifications and skills:
* Candidates are expected to have a good understanding and an experimental background in protein biochemistry and/or structural biology. The project involves the recombinant production of proteins and protein complexes (bacteria, insect cells and human cells), interaction studies between proteins and/or RNA, functional studies and structural studies.
* Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g. molecular cloning, site-directed mutagenesis)
* Production of recombinant proteins in Escherichia coli, insect- and human cells
* Characterization of proteins, nucleic acids, and their interactions using biochemical and biophysical methods
* Experience in structural analysis of biological macromolecules and their complexes using X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-electron microscopy
* Experience in (human) cell culture
* High motivation and ability to work independently
* Strong teamwork and communication skills
* Excellent spoken and written English

Applications should include:
* Academic transcripts
* Names and contact details of two referees for letters of recommendation
* A motivation letter
* A curriculum vitae
Please send all documents as a single PDF file, including the reference Absmeier_Praedoc25, to eva.absmeier@fu-berlin.de.

For further information, please contact Dr. Eva Absmeier (eva.absmeier@fu-berlin.de / +49 30 838 50508).