Job Advertisement Leibniz–HKI–18/2024

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 research group Microbial Immunology invites talented and highly gifted candidates to apply as

Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/div) Infection Biology
starting from April 2024 for initially two years.

Systemic candidiasis is a life–threatening infection in ICU patients. One major risk factor is prolonged antibiotic treatment, that facilitates fungal overgrowth but also proliferation of bacteria with intrinsic or acquired resistance. Clinical data suggest that a considerable proportion of candidiasis cases are accompanied by bacterial infection, for example by Enterococcus. The successful candidate will elucidate how coinfection with Enterococcus influences systemic candidiasis and the host response by developing and analyzing a novel mouse model of coinfection.

• You will conduct research on fungal–bacterial coinfection in mice, including microbiological and immunological analyses
• You will contribute to the development of project direction, as the project evolves
• You will produce high–quality written reports and draft papers
• You will present your results at local meetings and national and international conferences
• You will assist with the teaching activities of the group where required
• You will contribute to maintaining the friendly, welcoming, and collaborative environment within the group

• A PhD in microbiology, immunology, or a related discipline; candidates in the final stages of obtaining their doctorate are also eligible to apply
• Essential methodological skills: experience in working with laboratory mice in the field of either immunology or microbiology
• Desirable methodological skills: flow cytometry, immunological techniques, and microbiology techniques
• Excellent organisational and communication skills and team–oriented working attitude
• Outstanding track record of planning, performing, and publishing original research
• An integrative and cooperative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the dynamic interdisciplinary LPI (Leibniz–Zentrum für Photonik in der Infektionsforschung) community
• Fluency in German and English

• An interesting, interdisciplinary project in the field of infection biology / immunology / host–microbe interaction
• A highly communicative atmosphere within an energetic scientific team and state–of–the–art facilities
• Excellent networking opportunities within and beyond the LPI
• A salary which is paid according to German TV–L (salary agreement for public service employees)

The successful candidate will be hosted in the research group Microbial Immunology of Prof. Dr. Ilse Jacobsen. 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. We offer a multifaceted scientific project with excellent technical facilities, a place in a young, friendly, interactive, and committed team, as well as strong scientific collaborations. Jena is a recognized international center for infectious disease and microbiology hosting amongst others the Cluster of Excellence "Balance of the Microverse .

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.

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, and the addresses of two possible referees and should be submitted via the Leibniz–HKI online application system. The deadline for the advertisement is March 22, 2024, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Prof. Dr. Ilse Jacobsen

Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology Adolf–Reichwein–Straße Jena