Job Advertisement HKI-37/2025

The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Leibniz-HKI) investigates the pathobiology of human-pathogenic fungi and identifies targets for the development of novel natural product-based antibiotics. The junior research group (Epi-)Genetic Regulation of Fungal Virulence invites talented and highly qualified candidates, willing to start as soon as possible, to apply as

Postdoctoral Researcher (m/w/div) in “Microbial Infection Strategies”

for two years initially.

Research Area:
Members of the genus Fusarium are some of the few trans-kingdom fungal pathogens, being able to infect plants, and at the same time, cause severe superficial and invasive infections in humans. While immunocompromised patients usually suffer from systemic diseases, serious eye infections (keratitis) can develop even in completely healthy individuals. Recently, Fusarium species were listed in the high priority group of the World Health Organization's fungal pathogens list. We are now working towards improved understanding of the infection strategies of this emerging human pathogen.
We seek applications from highly committed postdoctoral researchers with an outstanding scientific track record to start at the earliest possible date.

Candidate’s profile:

  • A PhD (or equivalent) in biology, immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology or a related discipline. Candidates about to obtain their degree are welcome to apply
  • Strong interest in infection biology and immunology
  • Educational background in one or more of the following subjects: infection biology, immunology, cell biology, microbiology
  • Practical experience in cell culture is desired, additional experience in fungal molecular biology and fluorescence microscopy is an advantage
  • Ability to perform team-oriented as well as independent work
  • Willingness to take on responsibility in the lab and to supervise students
  • Very good communication skills in English

We offer:
The successful candidate will be hosted by the junior research group (Epi-)Genetic Regulation of Fungal Virulence of Dr. Slavica Janevska. We offer an interdisciplinary scientific project in a young and committed team, with excellent technical facilities and strong local, national and international scientific collaborations. The Leibniz-HKI is embedded in the outstanding scientific environment of the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-the-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups.

Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees). As an equal opportunity employer, the Leibniz-HKI is committed to increasing the percentage of female scientists and therefore especially encourages them to apply.

For further information

Please contact Dr. Slavica Janevska | +49 3641 532 1188 | career@leibniz-hki.de

Applications

Leibniz-HKI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law will receive consideration for employment.

Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, a CV containing a complete list of publications, a brief statement of research experiences, a certificate of study/transcript of records, the addresses of three possible referees, and should be submitted via the Leibniz-HKI online application system. The deadline for the advertisement is 15 September 2025, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

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