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:
In subproject C1, interactions of polyelectrolytes with blood and the endothelial glycocalyx are investigated. Within the project of Prof. Dr. Marie Weinhart, a cell-based, dynamically cultivated in vitro model of the endothelial glycocalyx is being developed, which enables the systematic investigation of electrostatic interactions with synthetic polymers and blood cells. Tasks include the synthesis and analysis of cationic model polymers (NMR, DLS, zeta potential) and interaction studies in flow chamber experiments (TIRF, LCSM, immunofluorescence, ELISA). Further project information can be found at www.grk2662.de.

Requirements:
Completed university degree (M.Sc. or Diploma degree in) biotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, biophysics or related subjects.

Desirable:
- Applicants should fulfill the requirements for admission to the doctoral program of the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacy at Freie Universität Berlin.

- Comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical experience in mammalian cell culture techniques including relevant analytical techniques
- Practical experience in the field of dynamic cell cultivation (micro-/millifluidics)
- Background in cell biology and protein biochemistry
- Basic knowledge of (bio)polymer chemistry, synthesis/modification and analytics
- Basic knowledge of natural and synthetic biomaterials
- Basic engineering knowledge (e.g. CAD design, CFD simulations) is advantageous
- High motivation to work independently and scientifically
- 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 C1, together with details of previous research experience and future goals
- Your curriculum vitae (including a list of publications if applicable),
- Evidence of your academic achievements including copies of your Bachelor's and Master's or Diploma degrees,
- At least two letters of support.

The position is limited until the end of the current funding period of the International 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 (svenja.herziger@fu-berlin.de/ +49 30 838-65340).