Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich) has announced applications for a PhD Candidate (Research Assistant) position in Molecular Biology of Cyanobacteria. The opportunity is hosted by the Faculty of Biology – Bereich Botanik and forms part of the prestigious Emmy Noether research project titled Metabolic Foundation of Developmental Transitions.

This funded doctoral position offers an excellent opportunity for graduates in microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry who want to build a research career at one of Europe’s leading universities while contributing to cutting-edge studies on cyanobacterial metabolism and environmental adaptation.

The LMU Munich PhD Position in Molecular Biology of Cyanobacteria offers an outstanding opportunity for aspiring researchers to work on internationally significant research within an Emmy Noether-funded project. With competitive funding, excellent supervision, advanced research facilities, and opportunities for international collaboration, this position is ideal for graduates looking to launch a successful career in molecular biology and microbiology. Interested candidates should prepare their application materials early and submit a complete application before the 16 August 2026 deadline.

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About LMU Munich

Founded in 1472, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München is one of Germany’s oldest and most respected universities. LMU is internationally recognized for excellence in research, teaching, and innovation, attracting talented researchers from around the world. The successful applicant will join the Faculty of Biology and work within an international research team in Planegg, near Munich.

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About the Research Project

The PhD position is part of an Emmy Noether-funded project led by Dr. Sofía Doello. The research investigates how cyanobacteria adjust their metabolism to survive environmental stress, particularly during nutrient limitation.

Using physiological, biochemical, and molecular biology techniques, the research team aims to understand the regulatory mechanisms that control metabolic adaptation in unicellular cyanobacteria. The project focuses on the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6308, providing doctoral researchers with the opportunity to contribute to fundamental discoveries in microbial physiology and metabolism.

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Research Responsibilities

As a PhD Candidate, you will contribute to several aspects of the research project, including:

• Investigating the metabolic regulation of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6308.
• Creating and characterizing mutant strains.
• Purifying and analyzing enzymes.
• Performing physiological and biochemical experiments.
• Analyzing Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) data.
• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Presenting research at national and international conferences.
• Supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s students.

This position provides extensive research experience while developing scientific communication and mentoring skills.

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in one of the following fields:

• Microbiology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry
• Or a closely related discipline

Candidates should also have:

• Previous experience in molecular biology research.
• Excellent English language skills.

Applicants who are close to completing their Master’s degree may also be considered if they can provide an expected certification date.

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Preferred Qualifications

Although not mandatory, experience in the following areas will strengthen an application:

• Cyanobacteria cultivation
• Gene editing
• Protein purification
• Enzymatic assays
• Molecular biology laboratory techniques

Candidates with practical laboratory experience and strong research motivation are encouraged to apply.

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Salary and Employment Details

The position is offered under the German public sector salary agreement.

Position: PhD Candidate (Research Assistant)

Salary Scale: TV-L E13

Employment: 65% Part-Time

Location: Planegg, Germany

Start Date: 1 October 2026

Contract Duration: Until 30 September 2029

The appointment provides financial support throughout the doctoral programme while allowing candidates to focus on high-quality research.

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Research Environment

The selected candidate will work within a young, international, and highly motivated research team. LMU provides access to modern laboratories, advanced research equipment, and structured doctoral training designed to support early-career researchers. The position also offers opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists in microbial physiology and molecular biology.

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Benefits

LMU Munich offers a range of benefits for doctoral researchers, including:

• Structured doctoral training.
• Close academic supervision.
• State-of-the-art research infrastructure.
• Opportunities to attend international workshops.
• Funding to participate in scientific conferences.
• Freedom to shape your research project.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Access to LMU corporate benefits.

Applicants with disabilities who possess equivalent qualifications will receive preferential consideration.

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Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• One-page motivation letter.
• Contact details of two academic referees.
• Copy of the Master’s degree certificate or expected graduation date.

Applications should be submitted as instructed by the university before the closing date. LMU Munich is consistently ranked among Europe’s leading research universities and offers doctoral researchers exceptional academic and professional opportunities.

Key advantages include:

• Internationally recognized research reputation.
• Competitive TV-L E13 salary.
• Participation in an Emmy Noether-funded research project.
• Modern research laboratories.
• International collaborations.
• Conference and workshop participation.
• Close supervision from experienced researchers.
• Strong career development opportunities in academia and industry.

For graduates interested in microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, or environmental microbiology, this PhD position provides an outstanding foundation for a successful research career.

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Important Dates

Application Deadline

16 August 2026

Applications submitted after the deadline may still be considered until the position has been filled.

Employment Starts

1 October 2026

Contract Ends

30 September 2029

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How to Apply

Candidates should send their complete application documents directly to Dr. Sofía Doello sofia.doello@lmu.de before 16 August 2026. Applications should include all required documents to ensure full consideration during the selection process.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for this PhD position?

Applicants with a Master’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a closely related field are eligible to apply.

Is this a funded PhD position?

Yes. The position is a paid Research Assistant appointment under the German TV-L E13 salary scale at 65% employment.

Where is the position located?

The PhD position is based in Planegg, Germany, within the Faculty of Biology at LMU Munich.

What research topic will the PhD focus on?

The research focuses on understanding the metabolic regulation of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6308, particularly its adaptation to environmental stress and nutrient limitation.

What laboratory experience is preferred?

Experience in cyanobacteria cultivation, gene editing, protein purification, enzymatic assays, and molecular biology techniques is considered an advantage.

Is English proficiency required?

Yes. Applicants should have excellent English language skills. German language skills are not listed as a requirement.

What documents are required?

Applicants must submit a CV, a one-page motivation letter, contact details for two referees, and a copy of their Master’s certificate or expected graduation date.

What is the application deadline?

The priority application deadline is 16 August 2026, although later applications may be considered until the position is filled.