Introduction

The University Hospital Bonn (UKB) is one of Germany’s leading university hospitals, combining top-level performance in medicine and research with excellence in teaching. Each year, more than half a million patients receive inpatient and outpatient care at the UKB. Around 3,500 students study medicine and dentistry here, and over 600 people are trained annually in healthcare professions. With approximately 9,900 employees, the UKB is the third-largest employer in the Bonn/Rhein-Sieg region. In the Focus hospital ranking, the UKB ranks first among university hospitals in North Rhine-Westphalia and second nationwide in terms of case mix index (case severity). In 2024, the UKB raised nearly €100 million in third-party funding for research, development, and teaching. The F.A.Z. Institute has named the UKB “Germany’s Training Champion” and “Germany’s Most Attractive Employer” for the fourth consecutive year.


The following part-time position (25,025 h/week) is to be filled as soon as possible and is for a period of three years due the promotion at the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the University Hospital Bonn:


PhD student (m/f/d) Promotion Mitochondria fulfil various essential functions for the survival of eukaryotic cells. Their biogenesis and functions depend on the import of more than 1000 different proteins that are produced as precursors on cytosolic ribosomes. The translocase of the outer membrane (TOM complex) forms the general entry gate. Subsequently, specific protein translocases import these proteins into the mitochondrial subcompartments. We identified a plethora of interaction partners of mitochondrial protein translocases to protein complex assembly, organellar contact sites, energy metabolism and quality control (Ellenrieder et al., 2019; Mårtensson et al., 2019, Song et al., 2023). In this project, we will study the molecular mechanisms that coordinate protein import with organellar contacts and metabolism.


We use highly innovative techniques in biochemistry, molecular and cell biology. This includes robot based genetic screens combined with fluorescent imaging and protein-protein-interaction studies coupled with proteomic assays. We study the functionality and fate of proteins using protein stability, aggregation, disaggregation assays and analyse the state of post-translational modifications with ubiquitin-family proteins. Moreover, we reconstitute the import and assembly of mitochondrial proteins synthesized in cell-free systems into intact organelles in vitro. We offer a well-equipped workspace in an active international team. The University of Bonn provides an excellent scientific research environment.


The position starts as soon as possible and is for a period of three years, with the possibility of an extension.
The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated, team-oriented graduate with a strong interest in protein biochemistry, molecular and cell biology. Experience with biochemical, cell and molecular biology techniques or proteomics is advantageous. Candidates should hold a diploma or a master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, Chemistry or a related subject.


Responsible and diverse: A position with plenty of room for creativity and responsibility within a supportive and collegial team

Fair compensation: Pay according to the TV-L EG13 65% collective agreement, including annual bonus and company pension scheme

Family-friendly flexibility: Flexible working time models, access to a place in our company daycare center, and programs supporting employees returning from parental leave

Smart commuting: Excellent connection to the SWB public transport network and the option of an interest-free loan for the purchase of an e-bike

Supported development: Individual training opportunities through courses, e-learning programs, and coaching sessions

Structured onboarding: A systematic introduction to your new role and team

Healthy at work: A...