Doctoral Researcher in Organic Chemistry

University of Jena – Cluster of Excellence \“Balance of the Microverse\“

Organisation/Company University of Jena – Cluster of Excellence \“Balance of the Microverse\“ Research Field Chemistry » Organic chemistry Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country Germany Application Deadline 20 Jan 2026 – 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Part-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse” studies the fundamental principles underlying microbial community interactions and functions in diverse habitats, ranging from oceans and groundwater to plants and human hosts. We integrate insights across ecological and medical fields to enhance our understanding of microbial balance from the molecular to the ecosystem level. We develop tools and detection technologies to shape microbiome dynamics for environmental and human health benefits. The affiliated early career program of the Jena School for Microbial Communication offers an ambitious, structured and interdisciplinary post‑graduate training based on top‑level fundamental research.

The research group of Prof. Ivan Vilotijevic at the Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse” invites applications for a

Doctoral Researcher in Organic Chemistry

commencing on April 1, 2026 or upon agreement. We offer a part‑time position (65%, fixed‑term position for 3.5 years) at the University of Jena.

The project spans the areas of photocatalysis, organic synthesis and peptide chemistry. It aims to develop novel synthetic methods for site selective chemical modification of peptides and apply these methods in modification of natural products involved in microbial signalling and microbial communication.

Your responsibilities

• Perform laboratory experiments, data analysis and work independently towards your doctoral research project
• Analyse project results, generate figures for publications, and write scientific manuscripts for publication
• Present your results at local, national, and international meetings and conferences
• Work closely together with other experimental and computational researchers in the research group and within the Cluster
• Assist with training and supervising other researchers (e.g. student assistants, BSc students)
• Contribute to the friendly, welcoming, and collaborative environment in our team

We offer

• A highly communicative atmosphere within an energetic and interdisciplinary scientific network
• The Jena School for Microbial Communication offers a structured and interdisciplinary doctoral training program based on top‑level fundamental research and provides comprehensive mentoring programs and soft skills courses
• Jena – City of Science, a young and lively city with a vibrant local cultural agenda
• A dedicated management team, providing support and information on non‑scientific subjects, such as onboarding and family life, and organizing individualized career development programs, and events on topics like diversity and collaboration
• 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

The 3.5 year doctoral researcher position (TV-L E13, 65%) is funded through the Excellence Strategy of the German federal and state governments. The employment contract will be with the University of Jena.

To promote gender equality in science, applications by women are particularly welcome. Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to join us? Then apply by January 20, 2026 using our online portal.

Qualifications

• A MSc in organic chemistry or closely related disciplines. Candidates in the final stages of obtaining their MSc are encouraged to apply
• Laboratory experience in organic synthesis, photocatalysis and peptide chemistry is desired
• The project will require extensive knowledge of organic synthesis as well as analysis and characterization of organic compounds including a panel of different MS based techniques.
• A high level of curiosity, self‑motivation, enthusiasm and attention to detail
• A cooperative personality actively seeking to contribute to our interdisciplinary and inclusive Microverse community
• Very good written and spoken English communication skills

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