The DFG-funded international Research Training Group GRK2662 "Charging into the future: understanding the interaction of polyelectrolytes with biosystems" aims to gain a better understanding of the molecular interactions between polyelectrolytes such as DNA, proteins or heparin with complex biological systems. A special feature of the Research Training Group is the close, complementary cooperation between scientists from Freie Universität Berlin (Germany), McGill University, Montréal, and the University of British Columbia, Vancouver (Canada).
The international research training group GRK2662 offers
• Positions for research assistants with the possibility of a doctorate,
• structured academic training in an international research environment, including participation in a variety of research-specific and career-enhancing training courses and events,
• integration into an interdisciplinary international research network
• and the opportunity for research stays in the laboratories of the Canadian partner institutions.

Job description:
Project A2 is investigating glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and their interaction with amyloid-forming peptides. The project, headed by Prof. Dr. Beate Koksch, is focusing on the design, synthesis and purification of amyloid-forming switch peptides. These peptides are synthetic model peptides that undergo a structural transition from small helical assemblies to amyloids when the environmental conditions change. In these peptides, the density and spacing of the positive charges can be controlled by design, which will allow a systematic analysis of GAG binding at the molecular level.
Further project information can be found at www.grk2662.de.

Requirements:
M.Sc. degree in chemistry or biochemistry (or equivalent) and must fulfill the requirements for admission to the doctoral program of the Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy at Freie Universität Berlin.

Desirable:
• Comprehensive knowledge in the chemical total synthesis of biomolecules (e.g. peptides, natural products) and their chemical and structural characterization
• Experience in the synthesis of peptides in solution and on the solid phase
• Very good written and spoken English skills
• Good communication skills and willingness to work in collaborations and teams

We look forward to receiving your application, which should include the following documents:
• A one-page letter of motivation why you want to work in Project A2, together with details of previous research experience and future goals
• Your CV (including a list of publications if applicable),
• Evidence of your academic achievements including copies of your Bachelor's and Master's degrees,
• At least two letters of support.

The position is limited until the end of the current funding of the Research Training Group (31.03.2026). An extension of the funding is being sought.
Please send applications together with all documents, stating the reference code, by e-mail in PDF format (preferably as one document) to bewerbung@grk2662.de

For further information, please contact Dr. Svenja Herziger (bewerbung@grk2662.de / +49 30 838-65340).