Doctoral Researcher (m/f/div) on Making living therapeutics safe – TheraSafe

The position is initially limited to three years.

Pathogen-related infections cost millions of lives every year. Several new strategies for combatting pathogens involve developing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that act as living therapeutics. However, we must first establish responsible approaches to ensure that GMOs are safe for therapeutic use. The successful candidate will aim to develop safe GMOs for therapeutic use against infectious diseases. The goal is to develop effective treatments against pathogens directly at the site of the infection, while keeping the native microbiome intact. The candidate will develop novel biocontainment tools to render therapeutic microbes safe for potential future applications. The project “TheraSafe” will strengthen our research in synthetic biology and enhance the translational approaches to develop new treatments for infectious diseases.

We seek an excellent and enthusiastic PhD student from 1st of June 2026. Candidates with background in microbiology or synthetic biology and enthusiasm for both translational science as well as novel therapeutic concepts are welcome to apply.

The candidate will be integrated into the Leibniz-HKI, specifically the Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, embedded in an outstanding scientific environment with state-of-the-art research facilities and top equipment. The project will be closely associated with the SynThera consortium, a joint effort from Leibniz-HKI and the University of Jena. The successful candidate is expected to actively collaborate within our interdisciplinary research community.

• Masters degree in life sciences, preferably in microbiology, synthetic biology, chemical biology or biotechnology. Candidates about to obtain their degree are welcome to apply
• Educational background in one or more of the following subjects: synthetic biology, microbiology, genetics, bioinformatics
• General knowledge about infection biology
• Practical experience in genetic manipulation of microbes, as well as DNA- and protein-based techniques is desired
• Experience in genome editing / genomic engineering of gram-positive bacteria would be preferable
• Excellent communication skills in English and the ability and willingness to work on a cross-disciplinary project
• An integrative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the dynamic Leibniz-HKI community

• A highly communicative atmosphere within a scientific network providing top-level research
• An outstanding scientific environment at the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-the-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups
• We offer an interdisciplinary scientific project in a young and committed team
• The PhD candidate will participate in the structured program of the graduate school International Leibniz Research School or the Jena School for Microbial Communication
• Remuneration in accordance with German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees)
• Attractive staff benefits and a family-friendly working environment with flexible working options