Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d)
Date: 15 Apr 2026
Location: Braunschweig
Company: Helmholtz-Zentrum für Infektionsforschung GmbH
Job advertisement no. 672
The department PAIN, led by Prof. Sampurna Chakrabarti, at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), is offering the position of a
Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d)
As a member of the Helmholtz Association, the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, based in Braunschweig, conducts top-level research in the field of infectious diseases. Our scientists develop novel methods and strategies to fight infectious diseases faster and more effectively. Our common goal is to develop novel approaches for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. Our research focuses on bacterial and viral pathogens, their interaction with the human immune system and new effective substances and vaccines.
Who are we?
We are a new, international lab (https://www.helmholtz-hzi.de/en/research/research-groups/details/pathways-in-infection-and-nociception/) funded by the HUMAN program investigating pain mechanisms in infection, particularly in herpes virus related infection. Pathogens interact with our nerves directly and indirectly during infection, causing nervous system dysfunction. Herpes simplex virus 1 infects an estimated 3.8 billion people globally and causes painful oral blister. We seek to understand the host-pathogen interactions at a single-cell level which lead to neuronal hyperexcitability using electrophysiology, behavior, cell culture and proteomics. As a member of a new lab, you will get the opportunity to shape the lab culture and support and drive projects in collaboration with a new team.
The project is a close collaboration with the laboratory of Dr. Fabian Coscia (https://www.mdc-berlin.de/coscia) at the Max-Delbrück-Center (MDC) in Berlin focusing on Deep Visual Proteomics (DVP), a novel spatial discovery proteomics concept that integrates microscopic cell phenotyping with deep-learning based image analysis and global MS-based proteomics (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-022-01302-5). The candidate will have access to both laboratories and state-of-the-art instrumentation (single-cell mass spectrometry, high-resolution microscopy, next-generation sequencing), applying the DVP concept to sensory neuron biology. For this collaborative and highly interdisciplinary research, it is expected that the candidate will spend time at both institutions.
Responsibilities:
- Mouse neuronal culture and neurotropic viral infection assays
- Developing single cell sorting workflows compatible with proteomics technologies
- Active participation in lab activities and collaborative mindset
Requirements:
- PhD in biology or related subjects
- Demonstrated expertise in proteomics workflows – ideally with single-cell or spatial proteomics background
- Proficiency in proteomics data analysis
- Demonstrated interest in neurobiology
- Practical experience will neuronal culture and cell sorting technologies is a plus
- Excellent (Fluent) written and spoken English
- Reliable team player with excellent communication skills.
- Ability and interest to drive a highly collaborative project
Advantageous for this position:
- Interest in driving an independent project
- Proficiency in proteomics data analysis
- Good laboratory management skills – especially keeping electronic lab notebooks up to date
We offer you:
- An attractive and varied job in a future-oriented research institute with an international environment at the Science Campus South in Braunschweig
- A state-of-the-art infrastructure and the latest technologies
- Flexible working hours, part-time models as well as home office
- A corporate culture of appreciation and promotion of equal opportunities
- Extensive training and continuing education opportunities to develop professional knowledge and personal skills
- A family office to support family and career as well as childcare offers
- Interesting additional public service benefits
- Possible subsidy of the job-ticket
People with severe disabilities and equivalent professional qualifications who are suitable for the position are given preference. In order to protect your rights, we ask you to provide us with a clearly recognizable reference to the existence of a degree of severe disability in your cover letter or resume.
The HZI is actively committed to equality, diversity and integration. For this reason, the HZI pursues the goal of professional equality between women and men. The position is suitable for part-time work.
For further information please contact Dr. Sampurna Chakrabarti via email: sampurna.chakrabarti@helmholtz-hzi.de or fabian.coscia@mdc-berlin.de
Please apply via our career portal.
Please include a cover letter, resume, (employment) references, certificates, and (if available) work samples or reference projects with your application materials. Please refrain from sending a photo.
We look forward to receiving your application!