Openings
PhD Position: Peptide/Protein Design for Synthetic Nanomachines
We’re looking for a PhD student to join our lab at TUM to work at the interface of peptide chemistry and synthetic biology.
What you’ll work on. You’ll design and engineer peptides and proteins that self-assemble into functional nanomachines — like motors and pumps. You’ll have access to our in-house peptide synthesizers and work in a lab building synthetic cells from the ground up. Alongside your research, you’ll co-teach organic chemistry lab courses, gaining hands-on teaching experience.
More info needed: Please read up on: Poprawa et al, JACS and Poprawa et al, Nature Commun. Here
What we offer.
- A PhD position on a German TV-L E13 contract, up to 75%
- Access to peptide synthesis and characterization infrastructure
- A collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment spanning chemistry, biophysics, and synthetic biology
- Structured teaching involvement (organic chemistry lab courses)
What we’re looking for
- An MSc (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field
- Interest or prior experience in peptide/protein design, synthetic biology, or supramolecular chemistry
- Enthusiasm for teaching and mentoring undergraduate students
- Independent, curious, and collaborative working style
How to apply
Send your CV, a brief statement of interest, and contact details for two references to job.boekhoven@tum.de, with the subject line “[PhD Application – Peptide Design]”.
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis / until early October.
Questions? Reach out directly.
For open applications as a postdoctoral researcher:
Please enclose a letter of motivation that stresses why you chose to apply to our group for your application. Please send a summary of the research during your Ph.D. along with your CV. We will not read applications without these.
For open application as a doctoral researcher:
Please write a letter of motivation for your application that stresses why you chose to apply for our group. Please send a summary of your MSc thesis along with your CV. We will not read applications without these.
For BSc. and MSc. students:
Please apply via email and a letter of motivation expressing your interest in our team. Clearly state your previous experience and what (techniques) you would like to learn from a stay in our labs. Research topics vary drastically and can be tailored to your interest.