
Stellenausschreibung Nr. 757
The Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) is offering an
Independent Postdoctoral Position (f/m/d)
in RNA Biology and Infection-Related Cellular Communication
in the department RNA Biology of Bacterial Infections led by Prof. Dr. Jörg Vogel.
The Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) is the first institution worldwide to combine ribonucleic acid (RNA) research with infection biology. Based on findings from our strong basic research program, our long-term goal is to develop innovative therapeutic approaches to better diagnose and treat human infections. HIRI is a site of the Braunschweig Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) in cooperation with the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) and is located on the Würzburg Medical Campus.
More information at www.helmholtz-hiri.de.
We are seeking an excellent and highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to develop an independent research profile in the area of RNA biology, with a focus on RNA & cellular communication. The successful candidate will establish an innovative research project at the interface of RNA function, gene regulation, and host-associated biological processes using modern molecular and cellular approaches.
Responsibilities:
- Develop an independent research project in RNA biology relevant to infection-associated processes
- Investigate mechanisms of RNA export as part of cellular communication in a mammalian model system
- Apply modern molecular biology methods, including transcriptomics and advanced RNA analysis
- Contribute to the scientific environment of HIRI through collaboration and exchange
- Support the supervision of junior scientists
- Acquire third-party funding and further develop an independent academic profile
Requirements:
- Completed university degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, life sciences, or a related discipline and an outstanding doctoral degree in one of the mentioned fields
- Successful postdoctoral experience in an internationally competitive research environment (demonstrated through a publication record of substantial strength in relation to the applicant’s career stage)
- Gender-equitable and diversity-sensitive leadership qualities
- Excellent expertise in RNA biology, molecular mechanisms of gene regulation and extracellular RNAs
- Experience with modern RNA-related methods, such as RNA sequencing, or single-cell approaches
- Experience with mammalian cell culture and advanced cellular model systems is desirable
- Strong scientific independence, creativity, and initiative
- Reliable, structured, and collaborative working style
- The ability to work effectively in an international team
- Excellent written and spoken English
We offer you:
- A three-year contract including research consumables
- The opportunity to develop an independent research profile in an internationally visible RNA research environment
- Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies
- A collaborative, interdisciplinary, and international working environment at the Würzburg Medical Campus
- Flexible working hours and family-friendly working conditions
- A corporate culture of appreciation and promotion of equal opportunities
- Extensive training and continuing education opportunities to develop professional knowledge and personal skills
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 position is held at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research GmbH (HZI) in Braunschweig. The place of employment is Würzburg.
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.
Starting date: As soon as possible. The contract will run for 3 years.
Salary: E 14 TVöD Bund
Working time: 39 hours per week
Place of work: Würzburg
Probation period: 6 months
Closing date: 02.10.2026
For further information please contact Prof. Jörg Vogel, phone +49 931 31-82575, email: joerg.vogel@uni-wuerzburg.de.
Please apply via our career portal.
Please include a cover letter, resume, (employment) references, certificates, a list of your publications, a description of your planned research project (up to two pages long), and contact details of academic reference persons who can provide an assessment of you. Please refrain from sending a photo.
Please submit your application in English.
We look forward to receiving your application!