PhD Position in Natural Product Research

There are currently two fully funded PhD positions available in the workgroup of Prof. Dr. Lena Barra in the field of biocatalysis and natural product research at the University of Konstanz (Department of Chemistry) (part-time 50%, E 13 TV-L). Positions are available initially for three years. Preferred start date ASAP (flexible).

What we do: We study the molecular mechanisms of secondary metabolite biosynthetic pathways with the aim to discover novel natural products (pharmaceuticals) and enzymes (biocatalysts). Enzymes in secondary metabolic pathways catalyze remarkable chemical transformations and the implementation of their catalytic versatility into organic synthetic and biotechnological applications has become an important research field in academia, as well as the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, especially in the context of sustainability. We search for novel biosynthetic pathways and investigate the underlying enzyme-mediated chemistries by combining state-of-the-art techniques from genomics (genome-mining, bioinformatics), molecular biology (heterologous gene expression), organic chemistry (enzyme assays, isotopic labelling, chemoenzymatic synthesis), metabolomics (mass-spectrometry-guided natural product discovery), and enzymology (structural biology-based mechanistic investigations and engineering).

What you should bring: Enthusiasm and fascination for interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry and biology. High degree of motivation to learn novel techniques and work in a collaborative team. A completed master’s degree in chemical biology, organic chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related disciplines. Scientific expertise in one of the following areas: organic synthesis, molecular biology, structural biology, investigation of reaction mechanisms, protein science, LC-coupled mass spectrometry/metabolomics, or bioinformatics. Strong written and oral communication skills in English.

What we offer:  PhD projects in the interdisciplinary field of biocatalysis and natural product chemistry. An inclusive environment, supportive mentoring, and guidance of individual career development. State-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure. International and national collaborations.

Where you will work: The University of Konstanz has been successful in the German Excellence Initiative since 2007 and provides excellent scientific infrastructure and instrumentation. The University has a strong standing in the field of chemical biology with plenty of opportunities for interdisciplinary in-house collaborations. Konstanz is directly located at Lake Konstanz in close proximity to Austria and Switzerland, resulting in a vibrant and international living environment with many opportunities to enjoy life outside the laboratory and gain novel perspectives.

Interested candidates are invited to contact Lena Barra for further information or send in their application directly (motivation letter (1 page), CV, brief summary of master thesis project (1 – 2 pages), and relevant certificates) per E-mail to lena.barra@uni-konstanz.de.