Overview
The Computational Biology group invites applications for a Ph.D. position in theoretical and computational membrane biophysics at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany. We seek an enthusiastic candidate to join a research team focused on the composition, structure, organization, and dynamics of cell membranes and their cellular function.
The Research Project
Unraveling the Membrane-Selective Mechanism of Lugdunin: Insights into Specificity for Gram-Positive Bacteria and Antimicrobial Activity The project investigates the membrane-selective mechanism of Lugdunin, a cyclic heptapeptide produced by Staphylococcus lugdunensis. Lugdunin shows activity against multi-resistant gram-positive bacteria while exhibiting no toxic effects on gram-negative bacteria or human cells. Previous studies suggest that Lugdunin disrupts the membrane potential of pathogens (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) by increasing membrane permeability to protons—a mechanism that remains partially understood.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Molecular Mechanism Research The specificity for gram-positive bacteria is hypothesized to arise from their unique membrane lipid composition, which facilitates peptide integration and antimicrobial activity. The project combines experimental and computational methods in collaboration with Prof. Claudia Steinem’s group in Göttingen to study interactions of Lugdunin with model membranes that mimic gram-positive, gram-negative, and eukaryotic cells.
The project aims to identify molecular interactions and structural determinants underlying antimicrobial activity and membrane selectivity, with the goal of enabling development of novel antimicrobial peptides and new approaches to combat infections by multi-resistant bacteria.
Collaborative Research Strengthens Antimicrobial Science The FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg and University of Göttingen collaboration addresses fundamental questions in antimicrobial research. DFG funding highlights the project’s importance in the global fight against multi-resistant bacterial infections and provides new therapeutic perspectives.
Your Profile
Educational Background: Ideally, a master’s degree in bio-/physics, theoretical/computational chemistry, life sciences, or a related field.
Interdisciplinary Interest: Strong interest in interdisciplinary projects and collaboration with experimental physics, chemistry, medical, and immunology groups.
Communication Skills: High proficiency in English and effective communication skills.
Team Player: Ability to thrive in a collaborative and dynamic research environment.
Why Choose Erlangen?
Erlangen is a center for immunobiology with over 70 groups dedicated to immunological research. Biophysical research in Erlangen has been boosted by the Max-Planck-Institute for the Physics of Light and the Max-Planck-Center for Physics and Medicine. The National High-Performance Computing Center in Erlangen focuses on cutting-edge atomistic simulations, providing a stimulating environment and exceptional computing resources for our research on biomembranes.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a PDF document comprising a cover letter, CV, and certificates to the specified address.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
Embark on a journey of groundbreaking research and contribute to the advancement of computational membrane biophysics. By joining our team, you will be part of a collaborative research initiative at the intersection of biophysics and immunology.
Notwendige Qualifikationen
Candidates should preferably hold a master degree in bio-/physics, theoretical/computational chemistry, life sciences or similar and have a strong interest in interdisciplinary projects and collaborations with medical/immunology groups.
Stellenzusatz
Befristetes Forschungsvorhaben.
Applications are assessed as they are received. The position will be filled on a rolling basis. Interested candidates should submit one PDF document containing a cover letter, CV, and certificates to the indicated address.
Entgelt TV-L E 13 | Arbeitszeit Vollzeit
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