PhD Student Postition in RNA Biology (m/f/d)

Join the Munschauer Lab at the Centre for Integrative Infectious Disease Research (CIID) and explore how RNA interactions can be harnessed to improve therapeutic mRNA. As part of the newly established DFG Collaborative Research Centre CRC/TRR 440 smART, you will investigate RNA-protein interactions and develop innovative strategies to enhance mRNA performance. Our international and interdisciplinary team combines RNA biochemistry, cell biology, mass spectrometry, genomics, single-cell transcriptomics and bioinformatics to understand RNA regulation at high spatial and temporal resolution. You will benefit from state-of-the-art research approaches, close collaboration with wet-lab scientists and bioinformaticians, structured doctoral training and excellent opportunities to develop your scientific profile.

Your responsibilities

• Dissect and characterize cellular RNA-protein interactions with high spatial and temporal resolution
• Recombinantly produce and purify RNA-binding proteins and characterize their binding preferences using biochemical and biophysical methods
• Synthesize mRNA in vitro and formulate it into lipid nanoparticle delivery systems
• Characterize lipid nanoparticles through appropriate quality-control experiments
• Use cell-based assays to investigate RNA delivery, intracellular transport, stability, translation, decay and payload expression
• Collaborate closely with scientists across CRC/TRR 440 smART and contribute to interdisciplinary research activities
• Work at the interface of experimental RNA biology, biochemistry and bioinformatics within an international research team

Your profile

• You hold a Masters degree or an equivalent qualification in cell biology, biochemistry or a related field in the natural or life sciences
• Practical experience in RNA biochemistry, cell biology and biophysical methods provides a strong foundation for your doctoral research
• Previous experience with lipid nanoparticle formulation is an advantage, but not a prerequisite
• Professional proficiency in written and spoken English enables you to communicate and collaborate effectively in an international research environment
• Scientific curiosity, accuracy and the ability to conduct research independently, combined with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary teamwork, complete your profile

About us

• For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Mathias Munschauer, Head of Molecular Virology, via phone at +49 6221 56-4225 or email at mathias.munschauer@med.uni-heidelberg.de .
• Shape the future of mRNA!
• We look forward to receiving your application directly online!