Friedrich Schiller University is a traditional university with a strong research profile rooted in the heart of Germany. As a university covering all disciplines, it offers a wide range of subjects. Its research is focused on the areas Light—Life—Liberty. It is closely networked with non-research institutions, research companies and renowned cultural institutions. With around 17.000 students and more than 10.000 employees, the university plays a major role in shaping Jena’s character as a cosmopolitan and future-oriented city.

The Institute of Physical Chemistry has a vacancy for a

Doctoral Researcher physical chemistry

to start on April 1, 2025n or later. The position is part-time (75% / 30 hours per week) and limited to three years.
The focus of the doctoral position is on research into protein aggregation mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases. The role of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in the pathological aggregation of proteins, in particular tau and α-synuclein, which play a central role in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and related diseases, will be investigated. To this end, linear and non-linear Raman methods and OPTIR microscopy will be used to analyze the structure and dynamics of these proteins in real time, which will contribute to crucial insights into disease mechanisms at the molecular level.

Your responsibilities:

• Work on an interdisciplinary research project in the field of biophotonics
• Analysis of the structure and concentration of proteins in liquid-like condensates using linear and non-linear Raman methods and OPTIR microscopy
• Cooperation with project partners
• Work on further scientific qualification, i.e. dissertation
• Generation of scientific results in the form of publications, posters and presentations, including participation in international conferences
• Independent supervision of courses (exercises, practicals)

Your profile:

• Successful master’s degree in chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, physics, biophysics or a related field
• Experience and knowledge in the field of laser spectroscopy, Ideally in the field of vibrational spectroscopy
• Ideally experience in handling biological / biomedical samples
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Highly motivated and creative personality with an interest in designing your own doctoral project
• Excellent communication and cooperation skills
• Very good command of written and spoken English
• Ability to work in a team and willingness to actively participate in an interdisciplinary team

We offer:

• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at salary scale E13 — depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications—, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement.
• A communicative atmosphere within an interdisciplinary working group that offers research opportunities at the highest level, including participation in international and national conferences, project meetings and workshops
• A Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates and postdocs
• A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office ‘JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (‘JUniKinder);
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.