PhD position in biology

Your area of responsibility Who we are:   Our Team develops synthetic and programmable tools for precision genome editing, transcriptome modulation, and sensor-based Reporters. Our expertise spans RNA-guided nucleases, TALE architectures, Argonaute proteins, and emerging RNA-guided systems, which we apply to uncover fundamental principles of protein–nucleic acid interactions and translate them into robust biotechnological applications. We also focus on DNA double-strand break repair and the development of transient, transgene-free delivery strategies to enable precise, HDR-based genome engineering in plants. By integrating synthetic biology, genome repair engineering, and advanced nucleic-acid tool development, we aim to advance scalable and sustainable biotechnology in plants and other eukaryotic systems. Research topic: Precise genome editing in plants holds strong potential for plant breeding and basic research. Tools like CRISPR-Cas9 excel at gene knockouts but struggle with precise genome modifications via ho-mologous recombination. Precise genome editing relies on homology-directed repair (HDR), which is underutilized due to the dominance of DNA end-joining (EJ) pathways, specifically classical (cNHEJ) and alternative (aNHEJ) mechanisms. These end joining mechanisms are also required for stable integration of Agrobacterium-delivered T-DNAs into plant genomes, the established method for plant genome editing which goes along with unwanted stable integration of foreign genetic material (transgenes). The goal of this project is to develop and apply efficient molecular tools to modulate undesired plant internal DNA-EJ processes to increase the frequency of precise HDR-based genome editing events during plant transformation. Modulation of DNA-EJ-processes will also reduce or even prevent unwanted stable integration of T-DNAs, enabling transgene-free precise genome editing in plants. The long term goal is to establish precise and transgene-free genome editing in higher plants as a routine method. Your tasks:  Design, clone and test synthetic tools, tailored for plant factors involved in EJ-processes Establish and apply the Bindcraft pipeline for the de novo design of peptide binders Inhibitor screening via transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana reporter lines Inhibitor-application in stable gene editing approaches using Arabidopsis thaliana reporter lines Presentation and publication of scientific data Your profile Diploma or master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, or closely related field Open mindset and enthusiasm for scientific work and work within a team Independent and solution-oriented work ethic Very good English language skills (written and spoken) Ability to work in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity Desirable knowledge and skills include: Understanding of the principles that define DNA, RNA, protein structures, functions, dynamics and interactions Experience in molecular and plant work (Cloning, CRISPR-systems, transient and stable plant transformations) Background in Bioinformatics We offer Modern Working Conditions: Comprehensive introduction to work techniques and a modern research environment with state-of-the-art equipment and up-to-date software Career Development: Targeted training opportunities and access to a specialized library with electronic resources and quiet workspaces Compensation & Security: Classification according to TV-L including annual bonus, pension scheme (VBL), health offers, and discounted canteen meals Ideal Working Environment: A varied and inspiring workplace in an international setting at a leading scientific and innovation hub Team Spirit and Leadership Culture: An open culture that strengthens teamwork, enables career networking, and promotes your research skills. Work-Life Balance: Flexible working models, remote work options, and 30 days of annual leave – for a balanced work-life experience. About us The Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry (IPB) is a non-university research institution of the Leibniz Association on the Weinberg Campus of the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. As a foundation under public law, the IPB is under direct supervision of the state of Saxony-Anhalt.The IPB is an internationally recognized research institution and consists of four scientific Departments, additional independent junior research groups, and the Department Administration & Infrastructure (about 200 employees, including about 40 PhD students). Research at the IPB aims to understand the (bio)chemical basis of plant resilience and performance in challenging environments related to climate change. The IPB offers excellent research facilities and state-of-the-art infrastructure to investigate the chemical diversity, biochemical interactions, and biological roles of small natural molecules in plants and fungi, with an emphasis on specialized metabolites, chemical mediators, and relevant molecular networks of functional gene and protein regulation (https://www.ipb-halle.de/en/). Dr. Tom Schreiber Academic Researcher Telefon: 0345 5582-1533 tom.schreiber@ipb-halle.de Leibniz-Institut für Pflanzenbiochemie (IPB) Weinberg 3 06120 Halle (Saale)