Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich), one of Europe’s leading research universities, has opened applications for a PhD Research Assistant (Doctoral Candidate) position in Molecular Physiology of Photosynthesis. The position is based at the Faculty of Biology and offers an exciting opportunity for graduates who are passionate about plant science, molecular biology, and photosynthesis research.

This three-year doctoral position combines advanced scientific research with professional development, teaching experience, and international collaboration. Successful candidates will work in an innovative research environment while pursuing a PhD at one of Germany’s most prestigious universities.

The LMU Munich PhD Position in Molecular Physiology of Photosynthesis is an outstanding opportunity for aspiring plant scientists seeking advanced doctoral training in Germany. Working within a leading European research university, successful candidates will contribute to innovative studies on photosynthetic adaptation while benefiting from excellent facilities, international collaborations, and a competitive salary. Interested applicants should prepare their documents carefully and submit a complete application before the 5 August 2026 deadline.

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About LMU Munich

Founded in 1472, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München has built an international reputation for excellence in research and higher education. Today, LMU is recognized as one of Europe’s top universities, attracting researchers and students from around the world. The university provides outstanding research facilities, international collaborations, and access to cutting-edge scientific infrastructure. The advertised position is hosted by the Faculty of Biology – Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants.

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About the Research Group

The doctoral candidate will join AG Ferrari, a research group investigating how plants adapt their photosynthesis to changing environmental conditions.

The group’s research focuses on non-model plant species capable of combining multiple photosynthetic pathways within a single organism, including:

• C3-CAM plants
• C4-CAM plants
• C3-C4 intermediate species

Researchers aim to understand the molecular mechanisms that enable these plants to rapidly respond to environmental stress through physiological, biochemical, transcriptional, translational, and post-translational regulation.

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Research Project

The successful PhD candidate will investigate the regulation of the C4-CAM photosynthetic switch in Portulaca species. A major focus of the project is understanding the role of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase kinase (PPCK) in regulating photosynthetic flexibility. The project combines plant physiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and bioinformatics to uncover mechanisms that improve plant resilience under environmental stress.

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Main Responsibilities

As a PhD Research Assistant, you will:

• Conduct independent research on molecular regulation of photosynthesis.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments.
• Generate, manage, and analyze scientific data.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research at national and international conferences.
• Supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
• Contribute to teaching activities within the Faculty of Biology.

This position provides excellent preparation for a future career in academic research or the biotechnology sector.

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should have completed, or be close to completing, a Master’s degree in one of the following areas:

• Plant Science
• Plant Biotechnology
• Plant Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Plant Physiology
• Or a closely related discipline

Candidates should demonstrate a genuine interest in basic research, particularly in photosynthesis and plant physiology.

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Preferred Skills

While not mandatory, the following experience will strengthen an application:

• Gas exchange measurements
• Enzyme activity assays
• Metabolite quantification
• Nucleic acid extraction
• qRT-PCR
• RNA-Seq data analysis
• Proteomics
• R programming
• Python programming
• Statistical data analysis

Applicants should also possess:

• Excellent English communication skills.
• Strong teamwork abilities.
• Independent and creative problem-solving skills.
• Reliability and flexibility.

Knowledge of German is considered an advantage but is not required.

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Salary and Employment Conditions

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

Salary Scale: TV-L E13

Employment Level: 65% Part-Time

Starting Date: 1 November 2026

Contract Duration: Until October 2029

The position allows candidates to complete their doctoral research while receiving a competitive salary under German university employment regulations.

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Research Environment

The successful applicant will work in an inspiring scientific setting alongside AG Kadereit within an international research team.

Facilities include:

• Modern molecular biology laboratories
• Experimental greenhouses
• Plant physiology laboratories
• Office space
• Advanced research equipment
• Access to the Botanical Garden Munich-Nymphenburg

The collaborative research environment encourages interdisciplinary work and international networking.

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Employee Benefits

LMU Munich offers numerous benefits for doctoral researchers, including:

• Flexible working hours
• International research environment
• Professional development opportunities
• Teaching experience
• Modern research infrastructure
• Career development support
• Family-friendly workplace policies
• Corporate employee benefits
• Access to world-class botanical research facilities

Applicants with disabilities who meet the required qualifications will receive preferential consideration in accordance with German regulations.

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Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare a single PDF containing:

• Motivation letter (maximum one page) explaining how your background and career goals match the research project.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Contact details for your Master’s thesis supervisor.
• Contact information for one additional academic referee.
• Degree certificates.
• Academic transcripts.

Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered. LMU Munich offers one of Europe’s strongest environments for doctoral research.

Reasons to apply include:

• Globally recognized research university
• International scientific collaborations
• Cutting-edge plant biology research
• Competitive TV-L E13 salary
• Outstanding laboratory facilities
• Opportunities to publish in leading journals
• Conference participation
• Teaching and mentoring experience
• Excellent career development prospects

This position is particularly attractive for students planning careers in plant biology, molecular physiology, biotechnology, environmental sciences, or academic research.

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Important Dates

Application Deadline

5 August 2026

Employment Starts

1 November 2026

Contract Ends

October 2029

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews after the application review process.

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How to Apply

Applications should be submitted by email as a single PDF file to: Prof. Dr. Renata Callegari Ferrari: r.ferrari@lmu.de Applicants with questions regarding the position should also contact Prof. Ferrari exclusively via email r.ferrari@lmu.de. Applications received after the deadline will not be evaluated.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for this PhD position?

Applicants who have completed, or are close to completing, a Master’s degree in Plant Science, Plant Biotechnology, Plant Biochemistry, or a related discipline are encouraged 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 position is based at the Faculty of Biology, LMU Munich, located next to the Botanical Garden Munich-Nymphenburg in Munich, Germany.

Is German language proficiency required?

No. Excellent English skills are required, while German language skills are considered an advantage but are not mandatory.

What research topic will the PhD focus on?

The project investigates the molecular regulation of the C4-CAM photosynthetic switch in Portulaca species, with emphasis on phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase kinase.

What documents are required?

Applicants must submit a motivation letter, CV, referee contacts, degree certificates, and academic transcripts in a single PDF file.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 5 August 2026.

How long is the PhD contract?

The appointment begins on 1 November 2026 and continues until October 2029, covering the standard three-year doctoral period.