Max-Planck-Institut für Multidisziplinäre Naturwissenschaften
Germany, Göttingen
At the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, we bridge the gap between basic research and translational, preclinical approaches. Here, researchers from the fields of biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine collaborate across disciplines, supported by high-performance service facilities and a modern research infrastructure. As the largest institute of the Max Planck Society with around 1,000 employees from over 66 nations, we offer an inspiring, international working environment with exceptional scientific breadth.
The research group Ubiquitin Signaling Specificity (Dr. Sonja Lorenz) invites applications for the position as
Our laboratory aims to understand how the posttranslational modifier ubiquitin coordinates eukaryotic physiology. A major key lies in the action of ubiquitin ligases that recruit specific substrates for ubiquitination and determine the ubiquitin signals they are decorated with. The immense potential of ubiquitin ligases for therapeutic applications has been illustrated by the clinical efficacy of immunomodulatory drugs in the treatment of hematological malignancies and recent advances with PROTACs and molecular glues. However, efficient targeting of ubiquitin ligases in the clinic is still limited by our insufficient understanding of their structural mechanisms and integration into cellular pathways.
We offer a PhD position to explore one of the following research directions: (i) The mechanism, specificity, and consequences of cellular small-molecule ubiquitination, building on our recent discovery that drug-like compounds are selectively ubiquitinated by human HUWE1 (doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-63442-x). (ii) The structural mechanism and biological functions of TKUL, a dual functional kinase-ligase that we identified as a novel virulence factor and drug target in Leishmania (doi: 10.1016/j.molcel.2025.09.002) (iii) Structural analyses of localization-dependent ubiquitination, combining cell-based analyses with cryo-EM/cryo-ET. Candidates should hold/soon expect a MSc or equivalent degree in a relevant area of the life sciences. Initial experience in one or more of the following techniques is desired: protein biochemistry, mammalian cell biology, or any aspect of structural biology.
The successful candidates for either position should be curiosity-driven, creative, and passionate about science. A high degree of self-motivation and independence is important, as well as the ability to communicate well within an international, multidisciplinary team.
A stimulating and collaborative international research environment
Professional development opportunities, skills training, and the Max Planck Society’s online training academy
Support for balancing work and family life, including on-campus childcare
Corporate health management, fitness and sports programs
On-site cafeteria offering warm meals and a salad bar
Sustainability initiatives and a nature-oriented campus environment, including a biotope
The positions should be filled as soon as possible; the exact start date is flexible. PhD students will be funded for three years (with a possibility of extension) and have the opportunity to enroll in one of several joint PhD programs with the University of Göttingen. Fast-track MSc/PhD students are also welcome to apply. Remuneration is based on the TVöD Bund (German federal civil service pay scale), depending on qualifications and professional experience. In addition, public sector social benefits apply.
We are committed to being a cosmopolitan institute that offers a diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities. We also aim to increase the number of employees with disabilities. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.
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