Arbeitgeber: Universität Giessen

Founded in 1607, Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU) is a research university rich in tradition. Inspired by curiosity about the unknown, we enable around 25,000 students and 5,800 employees to advance science for society. Join us in breaking new ground and writing success stories - your own and those of our university The Institute of Medical Virology at the Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU) is currently accepting applications for part-time positions (65%) as a Ph.D. student (m/f/d) in the field of Virology The position is part of the DFG-funded project "Membrane contact sites in coronaviral replication organelle formation" and is to be filled on a fixed-term basis in accordance with § 2 WissZeitVG and § 72 HessHG with the opportunity for own academic qualification at the Institute of Medical Virology at the Faculty of Medicine. The salary is in accordance with the collective labour agreement of the State of Hessen (E 13 TV-H). As intracellular parasites, viruses depend on the lipid metabolism of the infected host cell at each step of their replication cycle. In particular, viruses with a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA genome (+ssRNA viruses) induce extensive host membrane rearrangements resulting in the formation of membranous microenvironments in the cytoplasm of infected cells. Inside these microenvironments, viral replication and transcription take place. Indeed, these so-called replicative organelles (ROs) are thought to provide a structural scaffold for viral RNA synthesis machinery and to sequester viral components from host defense mechanisms, suggesting important roles for ROs in viral replication. So far, the formation of coronavirus-induced membranous structures is not well understood, and the specific roles of membrane rearrangements, membrane biogenesis and membrane contact sites remain largely unknown. Exploring these aspects is therefore essential to understanding RO formation from a molecular perspective. Your task at a glance: Design and performance of virological assays using different (recombinant) coronaviruses under BSL-2 and BSL-3 conditions Establishing and optimizing assays for the detection, validation, and quantification of membrane contact sites in infected cells, including proteomics, PLA, etc. Implementation of various microscopy techniques, including TEM, CLSM, etc. Independent analysis of experimental results, preparation of scientific talks and papers, and presentation of the work at scientific congresses The provision of academic services (including the processing of a research project financed by third party funds on a temporary basis) also serves the purpose of academic qualification. Completed Master‘s or equivalent university degree in biology (MSc), biomedicine (MSc), biochemistry (MSc), medicine, veterinary medicine, or equivalent Very good knowledge of molecular biology and cell biology Experience with cell culture, microscopy, and virology Knowledge in the field of membrane and lipid biology is an advantage but not required High degree of independence, motivation, and interest in the development of modern methods Excellent English language skills and computer skills The project involves work in a biosafety level 3 laboratory for which a documented protective immunity against hepatitis B virus (anti-HBs titer >100 IU/L) is required Highly motivated junior research group A varied job with flexible working hours Free use of local public transport (LandesTicket Hessen) More than 100 training seminars, workshops, and e-learning opportunities per year for personal development, as well as a wide range of health and sports activities Remuneration according to TV-H, company pension scheme, child allowance, and special payments Good compatibility of family and career (certificate \"audit familiengerechte hochschule\")