Doctoral researcher (f/m/x)

Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) – PhD Position (65 %, TV L E13)
Institute/Department: AG Bohlen, Gene Center, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München
Remuneration group: TV L E13 (65 % part time)
Starting date: October 2025 - February 2026
Duration: initially 3 years, with possible extension
Application deadline: August 30, 2025

About us

The AG Bohlen at the Gene Center of LMU Munich is a research group in molecular biology focusing on regulated mRNA translation, tRNA biology, and immune regulation. We explore how translational control shapes cellular responses in development, disease, and immunity, using cutting edge molecular, biochemical, and cellular immunology techniques. Our lab fosters an intellectually rigorous, collaborative, and inclusive research culture.

Your tasks and responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Design and execute molecular biology experiments to dissect mechanisms of regulated mRNA translation (e.g., ribosome profiling, reporter assays, ribonucleoprotein complex analysis).
• Investigate tRNA biology mechanisms (biogenesis, modification, function) using state of the art methods.
• Study the interplay between translation control and immune signalling in relevant cell models.
• Analyze and interpret high throughput and quantitative data.
• Present findings at internal group meetings and national/international conferences.
• Contribute to writing manuscripts and grant proposals.
• Supervise bachelor/master students on short research projects.

Your profile

We are looking for a candidate who:

• Holds an excellent master’s degree (M.Sc./equivalent) in molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, genetics, or a related field.
• Has hands on experience in molecular cloning, cell culture, RNA based assays, and ideally translation or tRNA methodologies.
• Ideally possesses immunology techniques (e.g., flow cytometry, ELISA, functional assays).
• Demonstrates strong analytical thinking, critical rigor, and motivation to push scientific frontiers.
• Is fluent in English (spoken and written); German is an advantage but not required.
• Has excellent communication skills and a teamwork mindset.
• Has ambitious career aspirations in academic research or biotech/pharma.

What we offer

• A stimulating, supportive, and multidisciplinary research environment in one of Europe’s top molecular biology centers.
• Structured PhD training through the LMU Graduate School and Gene Center seminars.
• Access to cutting edge core facilities (omics, microscopy, FACS, proteomics).
• Collaborative opportunities with internal and external partners (e.g. Max Planck Institute, DFG-funded networks).
• Competitive remuneration (65 % TV L E13) and social benefits, including parental leave and pension schemes.
• Access to LMU’s international network and German life-science funding landscape.

Application

Please submit your application as a single PDF (max. 15 MB) including:
1. Cover letter (1 page) detailing your motivation and relevant experience
2. Curriculum vitae (including publications)
3. Master’s thesis abstract or equivalent writing sample
4. Contact details for two academic referees
5. Academic transcripts (B.Sc./M.Sc.)

Send your application via email with the subject line
„PhD position AG Bohlen – [Your Name]”
to: bohlen@genzentrum.lmu.de
Informal enquiries are welcome and can be directed to Dr. Jonathan Bohlen (email: bohlen@genzentrum.lmu.de).

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