Main tasks
The research group of Dr. Florian Altegoer at the Institute of Microbiology (Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf) investigates molecular communication mechanisms in fungal host–microbe interactions. Our goal is to understand how fungi sense their environment and coordinate complex behaviors such as infection and symbiosis. This project focuses on a newly discovered peptide-mediated G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling system in the plant pathogen Ustilago maydis (see preprint here: https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.09.26.678928). The successful candidate will dissect the molecular and structural basis of receptor activation and signaling. To achieve this, we combine molecular biology, protein biochemistry, microbiology, and structural biology approaches, with a strong emphasis on single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) of membrane proteins. The postdoctoral researcher will work on a BIS-funded project entitled “Deciphering the molecular language of fungal peptide GPCR signaling”. Key objectives include:
1. Biochemical reconstitution of a fungal GPCR–peptide signaling system
2. Expression and purification of membrane proteins
3. Structure determination of GPCRs in ligand-free and ligand-bound states using cryo-EM
4. Functional characterization of receptor activation mechanisms
5. Comparative analysis with other fungal GPCR systems
Your Profile
6. PhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, Biophysics, or a related field
7. Strong background in protein biochemistry, especially membrane protein expression and purification
8. Experience with structural biology techniques (cryo-EM experience is highly desirable but not strictly required)
9. Experience in molecular cloning and heterologous protein expression systems
10. Experience in GPCR biology, membrane proteins, or peptide–receptor interactions is an advantage
11. Basic knowledge of microbiology or fungal biology is beneficial
12. High motivation to establish and troubleshoot complex experimental workflows
13. Willingness to learn and implement new techniques, particularly in cryo-EM
14. Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary and international environment
15. Willingness to supervise Bachelor and Master students
16. Proactive, creative, and reliable working style
17. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
18. Excellent communication skills
19. Fluent in spoken and written English
Our Offer
20. Full-time postdoctoral position (100% TV-L E13)
21. Initial contract for 2 years, with possible extension
22. Opportunity to establish cryo-EM-based membrane protein structural biology within the group
23. Access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM infrastructure via collaborations (Cologne/Jülich) and in-house sample preparation (Vitrobot)
24. A highly interdisciplinary research environment at HHU Düsseldorf
In accordance with § 2 Abs. 2 of the Act of Academic Fixed-Term Contract (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz - WissZeitVG), the position is limited to the exercise of a third-party funded project.
Our Benefits
25. Company pension grant
26. Good transport connection
27. Free parking
28. Flexitime
29. Working from home
30. Union rates
31. Part-time possible
32. Payment of capital-forming benefits
Company pension grant; Good transport connection; Free parking; Flexitime; Working from home; Union rates; Part-time possible; Payment of capital-forming benefits
About us
Heinrich Heine University upholds the principle of "Excellence through Diversity". It has signed the "Diversity Charter" and successfully participated in the Stifterverband's audit "Shaping Diversity". It is certified as a family-friendly university and has set itself the goal of promoting diversity among its staff. Applications from people of all genders are expressly welcome. Applications from women will be given preferential consideration in accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act. The application of severely disabled persons and persons with equivalent disabilities is also welcome. In order for a severe disability or equality to be taken into account, please provide evidence of this with suitable documents.
Contact
Florian Altegoer
+49 (0)211 81 14720