The Möckl research group is located at the University Clinic/CITABLE and the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light. Our research relies on a highly transdisciplinary approach, utilizing light to investigate and manipulate biological systems. We employ cutting-edge super-resolution methods such as DNA-PAINT, dSTORM, and iSCAT microscopy to unravel spatiotemporal dynamics of biomolecules at the nanometer and microsecond scales, complement our microscopy studies with biophysical investigations of cell mechanics, and develop photoactivatable therapeutic compounds for new strategies in light-based therapy.

Every cell in the human body is surrounded by the glycocalyx, a complex layer consisting of glycans (carbohydrates or sugar chains), either free or attached to proteins and lipids. Over the past years, research by other groups and the Möckl group has brought the glycocalyx into the spotlight of biological and biomedical research, showing its relevance in a range of vital cellular processes. These initial insights motivate a concerted effort to unravel the functional role of the glycocalyx in health and disease.

The Möckl Lab is part of the recently launched EU-wide consortium “GLYCOCALYX” (funded by the ERC), which investigates the self-organization and barrier function of the mammalian glycocalyx (see here for the consortium and all members: https://www.glycocalyx.org/).

Your tasks:

Within this consortium, a

- PhD position for spatial fingerprinting of nanoscale glycocalyx architecture is available at the Möckl group.

Successful applicants will have the rare opportunity to

- learn, apply, and develop an integrated optical and biochemical framework to study the functional role of the glycocalyx at the nanoscale.

In addition, secondments within the consortium will enable the doctoral candidate to

- visit other labs and expand their expertise both in academic and industrial research environments.

Essential experience/qualifications:

We are looking for creative and motivated PhD students who wish to work in a world-class environment at the intersection of super-resolution microscopy, glycobiology, immunology, and cancer biology. You have successfully completed a Master’s degree in a field relating to biology, biochemistry, or biophysics. We especially encourage applicants with experience in advanced imaging, glycobiology, or biophysics. You are eager to work across disciplines, joining ongoing collaborations and engaging with other scientists from diverse backgrounds ranging from theoretical optics to medicine. You address problems with a fresh mindset and like to work independently and with exceptional commitment as part of a bigger team. You are looking forward to broadening your expertise and developing novel techniques.

The following qualifications will strengthen your application:
• Experience in localization microscopy (dSTORM, DNA-PAINT; setup, alignment, data analysis)
• Glycobiology (glycans in immunology and cancer development)
• Programming (Python) for quantitative image and data analysis as well as simulations
• Cell and molecular biology techniques (cell culture, transfection, immune cell isolation)
• Development and optimization of labeling protocols

Comments:

- The project duration is 3 years, starting in 2026 (30 h/week).
- If you want to become a part of our group, please send your application (letter of motivation, CV, transcript of records, and two letters of reference.
- As this is Doctoral Network project, please note the specific mobility requirements: “At the time they are hired, Doctoral Candidates must meet the MSCA mobility rule: they must not have lived in, or carried out their main activities (such as work or studies) in the country of their future host organisation for more than 12 months during the 3 years immediately before their start date. Proof of compliance with this rule will be required, as it is essential for eligibility. “
- A PhD project at the forefront of science, where glycobiology, optics, and immunology intersect. The project is embedded in a European Network of top laboratories, which will provide the successful candidate with ample possibility to network and expand their skillset.

We offer:

- A secure job with all the benefits of a collective bargaining agreement, including supplementary pension benefits through the Federal and State Employees' Pension Fund (VBL), with us as a systemically important employer in the public sector.
- An interesting position in a motivated and open-minded team.
- Thorough and qualified onboarding.
- A comprehensive health promotion program.
- Intended salary classification, depending on qualifications and personal circumstances, according to the TV-L (Collective Agreement for Public Service Employees in the German States).
- This is a part-time position.

Further informations:

Prof. Dr. Leonhard Möckl
Arbeitsgruppenleiter
Telefon: 09131 7133 115

Applications:

Prof. Dr. Leonhard Möckl
Professorship of Nano-optical Imaging
FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg/CITABLE
Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie
University Clinic Erlangen
Associated Group Leader
Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light
Staudtstr. 2
91058 Erlangen