The Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse” studies the fundamental principles underlying microbial community interactions and functions in diverse habitats, ranging from oceans and groundwater to plants and human hosts. We integrate insights across ecological and medical fields to enhance our understanding of microbial balance from the molecular to the ecosystem level. We develop tools and detection technologies to shape microbiome dynamics for environmental and human health benefits. The affiliated early career program of the Jena School for Microbial Communication offers an ambitious, structured and interdisciplinary post-graduate training based on top-level fundamental research.

Combining the toolbox of analytical chemistry with biological experiments paves the way for groundbreaking discoveries. In this project we will follow this approach to investigate new mechanisms of cellular aging. Senescence, or the decline of cellular function with age, is known in higher organisms but also affects microbial cells and populations, impacting microbiome health and host longevity. However, the molecular mechanisms driving senescence and rejuvenation in microorganisms are only partially understood. We recently found that the planktonic microalga Coscinodiscus radiatus can undergo nutrient-induced rejuvenation associated with the release of extracellular vesicles that transport harmful substances out of the cell (Deng et al., Nature Microbiology 9, 2356 (2024)). This project aims to investigate the induction and ecological role of rejuvenation processes within a microbial plankton community. Our study system will pinpoint critical chemical signals and biological processes affecting aging and rejuvenation in microbes and their hosts, uncovering the role of microbial communities in this process.
Perform laboratory experiments bridging chemistry and biology, including metabolomic data mining, and you will have the opportunity to conduct field work in marine stations
Work in an interdisciplinary team on your doctoral research project
Operate state-of-the-art analytical and microscopical equipment.
Analyse project results, generate figures for publications, and write scientific manuscripts for publication
Present your results at local, national, and international meetings and conferences
Work closely together with other experimental and computational researchers in the team and within the Cluster
Assist with training and supervising other researchers (e.g. student assistants, BSc students)
Contribute to the friendly, welcoming, and collaborative environment in our team

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds who will work in an interdisciplinary team. A MSc in any area of the biological sciences or chemistry - including microbiology, analytical chemistry, chemical biology, or related fields - qualifies you for this project. Candidates nearing completion of their MSc are also encouraged to apply.
A high level of curiosity, self-motivation, enthusiasm and attention to detail
A cooperative personality actively seeking to contribute to our interdisciplinary and inclusive Microverse community
Very good written and spoken English communication skills

Are you unsure because you don't meet one or some of our requirements? Please do not hesitate to apply and give us a chance to get to know you.
A highly communicative atmosphere within an energetic and interdisciplinary scientific network
The Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) offers a structured and interdisciplinary doctoral training program based on top-level fundamental research and provides comprehensive mentoring programs and soft skills courses
You will work in a brand-new building with cutting-edge infrastructure designed to foster interdisciplinary research in the microverse.
Jena - City of Science, a young and lively city with a vibrant local cultural agenda
A dedicated management team, providing support and information on non-scientifi...