Researcher/PhD (m/f/x) in Molecular Biology / Protein Science

In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (25,89 hours/week = 65 %) at the earliest possible date or by February 15, 2027, we are looking for 1

Researcher/PhD (m/f/x) in Molecular Biology / Protein Science

The Karges Research Group is seeking a highly motivated PhD researcher to join our interdisciplinary program at the interface of molecular biology, medicinal chemistry, biophysics, and translational medicine. We design and synthesize novel metal complexes, characterize their photophysical properties, and explore their biological activity against target proteins and cancer cells, with a focus on medical applications. More information: https://www.kargesgroup.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/ The PhD project will investigate the mechanisms of action of novel compounds targeting cancer-relevant proteins. This includes expressing and characterizing protein targets, studying their interactions with drug-like compounds, analyzing protein modifications and their functional consequences, and developing new biochemical assays. Promising compounds may then be studied in cancer cell monolayers and 3D tumor organoids, linking molecular mechanisms to biological activity and contributing to new cancer therapies. The project requires creativity, initiative, and scientific curiosity, and offers room for independent development. Experience in recombinant protein expression, purification, and handling is advantageous. We offer a dynamic, collaborative environment combining chemistry, biology, physics, and medicine, with access to cutting-edge methods.

Scope: part-time

Duration: fixed-term, 36 Monate

Start: at the earliest possible date or by February 15, 2027

Apply by: 2026-10-19

Your tasks:

- Express, purify, and characterize recombinant protein targets

- Investigate the interaction of protein targets with novel drug-like compounds using complementary biochemical and biophysical techniques

- Characterize and evaluate chemical and post-translational modifications of proteins and investigate their functional consequences

- Develop, optimize, and apply novel biochemical and biophysical assays to investigate protein function, interactions, and mechanisms of action

- Investigate promising compounds and mechanisms in biological models, including cancer cell monolayers and advanced 3D tumor organoids

- Analyze, document, and communicate research findings through scientific publications, reports, conference presentations, and team meetings

- Collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment spanning biochemistry, chemistry, biophysics, biology, and medicine

Your profile:

We are looking for a motivated and curious researcher who enjoys working at the interface of different scientific disciplines. You have:

- A Master of Science degree in biochemistry, biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related discipline

- Practical experience in protein expression

- Experience with cell culture and biological assays is an advantage

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and develop new ideas

- Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to learn new techniques

- Strong command of written and spoken English

[https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/ef8757fdfbe6cc34f86b051b1045cba5608c0fbe0?ref=AfA](https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/ef8757fdfbe6cc34f86b051b1045cba5608c0fbe0?ref=AfA)