The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology seeks to fill:
PostDoc Position (m/f/d) in Structural Biology of Membrane Protein Complexes
A fully funded postdoctoral position is available in the project group of Dr. Tobias Raisch in the Department of Structural Biochemistry at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology in Dortmund, Germany. The position is available from October 2025 onwards and is initially limited to 2 years. The successful candidate will work in a dynamic international team situated in a world-renowned institute with cutting-edge infrastructure for cryo-EM and cryo-ET.
Summary :
The group of Tobias Raisch combines biochemical reconstitution and characterization of medically relevant membrane proteins and membrane protein complexes with in vitro and in situ structural elucidation, with the aim of understanding their function and dynamic mechanism. One key focus lies on the understanding of neuronal ion channels, their regulation through other proteins, small molecules and toxins, as well as their native stoichiometry, assembly and maturation. To this end, a combination of methods including membrane complex reconstitution and isolation, biochemical and biophysical characterization, single particle electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM), cryogenic focused ion beam (cryo-FIB) milling and electron cryo-tomography (cryo-ET) are applied.
Besides membrane protein complexes, the group also has expertise and a strong interest in reconstitution and characterization of soluble multi-protein and protein-nucleic acid complexes involved in biologically fundamental and medically relevant topics such as innate immunity.
The Department of Structural Biochemistry is on the forefront of cryo-EM and cryo-ET, with expertise ranging from method development to applying electron microscopy techniques to challenging biological systems.
Requirements:
Ideal candidates should hold an excellent PhD in structural biology, biochemistry, biophysics or in an equivalent area. Experience in membrane protein biochemistry, single particle cryo-EM or cryo-ET is an asset, curiosity and willingness to learn new methods and adjust to technological developments a must.
Strong written and oral communication skills in English as well as ability to work independently and in collaborative projects with scientists from diverse backgrounds are required.
Why join us?
Being a part of the community at the Max Planck Institute is more than just a job. Our dynamic research environment, distinct culture, and diverse community foster collaboration and excellence in every corner of science. We offer an extensive range of benefits and resources such as:
* access to state-of-the-art research facilities
* opportunities to collaborate on cutting-edge research
* an international and exciting working atmosphere
* an integrated training program that includes lectures, advanced scientific workshops, complementary skill courses and opportunities for career development
* a mentoring program to guide and promote young scientists
Salary:
Payment depends on personal conditions and qualification according to the directive of the TVöD. Social benefits correspond to those of the public service.
How to Apply:
Applicants should submit a CV, a motivation letter outlining research experiences and interests and two reference letters by July 15 th, 2025 to Tobias Raisch at tobias.raisch@mpi-dortmund.mpg.de .
Additional Information:
The Max Planck Society (Max Planck Gesellschaft – MPG) is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.
The MPG seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.
Furthermore, the MPG strives to foster an inclusive culture and diversity within its workforce. Therefore, all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to ethnicity, religion, skin color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.