Our group (https://www.physik.fu-berlin.de/einrichtungen/ag/ag-joseph/Research/index.html) aims to understand the mechanisms and principles of lipid translocation and protein folding underlying membrane biogenesis in bacteria using a combination of biochemistry, biophysics and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy techniques. We develop and apply in situ ESR spectroscopy methods to characterize the structure and heterogeneity of these membrane protein complexes in intact cells and native membranes. As a complementary approach, the group investigates the purified complexes using ESR spectroscopy and single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) in vitro. Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art spectrometers operating in the range of 4 – 94 GHz as well as modern instruments for membrane protein biochemistry. This integrated approach enables us to elucidate the structural, dynamic and mechanistic principles governing the functionality of these membrane protein complexes, which are highly sought-after targets for new drugs.

Job description:
Our research group at Freie Universität Berlin is looking for a PhD candidate with a biophysics or spectroscopy background to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in cross-membrane lipid translocation and protein folding. The position is initially funded for three years by the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation with further extension possible for a successful completion of the PhD thesis.

The successful candidate will independently design and perform experiments to investigate the structural and dynamic aspects of one of the key membrane protein complexes involved in membrane biogenesis in Gram-negative bacteria. The candidate will perform purification, site-specific labeling, biochemical/functional characterization of the protein complex and investigate the structure and heterogeneity using advanced ESR spectroscopy techniques (in situ and in vitro) and cryo-EM. Our highly interdisciplinary, collaborative, and goal-oriented environment requires a creative team-oriented individual. The candidate is expected to mentor junior students and present results at national and international scientific conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Requirements:
Completed a Master degree in Physics, Biophysics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field.

Desirable:
A solid background in protein expression and purification or biomolecular spectroscopy is desired. Excellent communication skills in English and ability to work independently and as part of a team.

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Benesh Joseph (benesh.joseph@fu-berlin.de/ 030-838-58916).