PhD Funded Position in Plant RNA Biology at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany
Are you interested in plant molecular biology, RNA biology, alternative splicing, and molecular mechanisms of gene regulation? Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) is inviting applications for a PhD student position in Plant RNA Biology within the Faculty of Biology.
The position is based at the Institute of Molecular Physiology, where the Molecular Plant Science research group investigates the molecular mechanisms and biological functions of alternative RNA splicing in plants. The successful candidate will join the Wachter group and become part of an interdisciplinary and international research team studying how RNA-binding proteins and RNA structures influence gene regulation.
The PhD position is offered on a part-time 65% basis, is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), and is initially limited to three years. The position can start from 1 December 2026 and is intended to support academic qualification toward a doctorate.
About Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) is one of Germany’s largest universities and is located in the Rhine-Main science region. Its status as a comprehensive university supports multidisciplinary education and internationally oriented research across a wide range of academic fields.
Most of the university’s institutes are located on a single campus close to Mainz city center. This creates an active academic environment where researchers, teaching staff, and students from different countries and disciplines can interact and collaborate.
For doctoral researchers, the university provides access to a broad research community, interdisciplinary expertise, modern facilities, and opportunities for professional and scientific development.
About the Plant RNA Biology PhD Project
The Wachter group at the Institute for Molecular Physiology investigates the molecular mechanisms and biological functions of alternative RNA splicing in plants. Recent research by the group identified a structured messenger RNA (mRNA) element that regulates specific DEAD-box helicase genes and demonstrated an important role for these helicases in controlling alternative splicing.
Interestingly, the observed functions appear to be associated with unique C-terminal features of the DEAD-box helicases. The PhD project will investigate the molecular mechanisms responsible for their splicing-regulatory activity. A particular focus will be placed on the functional significance of RGG motifs, protein subcellular localization, and the possible involvement of these proteins in phase separation.
The project therefore provides an opportunity to investigate RNA regulation at several levels, ranging from molecular interactions and RNA biochemistry to cellular processes and plant physiology.
Research Focus: RNA Splicing and DEAD-Box Helicases
Alternative RNA splicing is an important mechanism through which plants can generate different RNA and protein products from the same gene. Understanding how RNA structures and RNA-binding proteins influence splice-site selection is therefore central to understanding gene regulation. In this PhD project, the researcher will investigate how DEAD-box helicases recognize and regulate specific RNA structures and how these interactions influence alternative splicing.
The research will also explore whether helicase targeting of structured pre-mRNA regions interacts with the binding of other splicing regulators. This part of the project will be conducted in collaboration with the Weinberg group at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. Together, these approaches aim to clarify how RNA structure, helicase activity, and splicing regulators work together to determine splice-site choice.
Model Organism and Research Methods
Arabidopsis thaliana will serve as the primary model organism for the research. The PhD researcher will use a multidisciplinary combination of molecular biology, RNA biochemistry, cell biology, and plant physiology. The project will involve both in vitro and in vivo experimental systems, allowing the candidate to investigate RNA regulation at different levels of biological complexity.
The research will also make use of modern techniques for both gene-specific and genome-wide analysis of RNA biology. These approaches will provide opportunities to study alternative splicing across the transcriptome and to investigate protein-RNA interactions on a broader scale.
Main Tasks and Responsibilities
The successful PhD candidate will contribute to the research project while also participating in selected academic activities within the research group.
Key responsibilities include:
- Applying state-of-the-art methods for gene-specific and genome-wide RNA biology research
- Performing transcriptome-wide analyses of alternative RNA splicing
- Mapping and characterizing protein-RNA interactions
- Using in vitro and in vivo experimental systems to investigate RNA regulatory mechanisms
- Studying the biological functions of DEAD-box helicases in plant RNA biology
- Investigating RGG motifs, protein localization, and potential phase-separation mechanisms
- Presenting research findings in scientific meetings and conferences
- Preparing research reports and scientific manuscripts
- Contributing to teaching activities for Bachelor’s and Master’s students
- Assisting with organizational and administrative tasks within the research group
The position offers a balance of independent research, collaboration, scientific communication, and teaching experience, making it suitable for graduates interested in pursuing an academic career.
Required Qualifications
Applicants should have a successfully completed scientific university degree in Biology or a related discipline. The ideal candidate should have practical experience with a range of molecular biology techniques and should have an academic background in plant molecular biology and/or RNA biology.
Candidates should also demonstrate:
- A strong interest in RNA biology and molecular plant science
- Practical experience with molecular biology methods
- Knowledge of plant molecular biology and/or RNA biology
- Very good English language skills, at least B2 level
- Strong scientific curiosity and fascination for research
- Excellent communication skills
- Good teamwork and collaboration abilities
Experience with RNA analysis, alternative splicing, plant molecular biology, transcriptomics, or protein-RNA interaction studies can be particularly valuable for this research project.
PhD Training and Research Environment
The PhD project is funded by the DFG and can be integrated into the International PhD Programme (IPP) in Mainz. The successful researcher will benefit from the expertise of an interdisciplinary and international research team, as well as access to extensive scientific infrastructure and core facilities.
The newly established research infrastructure provides a modern environment for experimental research. Collaboration with researchers in Mainz and Halle-Wittenberg will also allow the candidate to develop experience working across research groups and scientific disciplines.
For researchers interested in RNA biology, plant molecular science, and gene regulation, this environment offers an opportunity to develop advanced experimental and analytical skills while working toward a doctoral degree.
Salary, Contract, and Start Date
The PhD position is classified according to EG 13 TV-L and is offered at 65% part-time. The position can be filled from 1 December 2026 and is initially limited to three years. The purpose of the appointment is academic qualification leading to a doctorate (PhD).
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | PhD Student – Plant RNA Biology |
| University | Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz |
| Faculty | Faculty 10: Biology |
| Institute | Institute of Molecular Physiology |
| Research Group | Wachter Group / Molecular Plant Science |
| Research Area | Plant RNA Biology and Alternative Splicing |
| Primary Model Organism | Arabidopsis thaliana |
| Contract | 65% part-time |
| Salary | EG 13 TV-L |
| Funding | German Research Foundation (DFG) |
| Duration | Initially 3 years |
| Start Date | 1 December 2026 |
| PhD Programme | International PhD Programme (IPP), Mainz |
| Application Deadline | 23 September 2026 |
| Application Method | Online via “Apply now” |
| Contact | Prof. Dr. Andreas Wachter |
| Contact Email | jobs-aw@uni-mainz.de |
Benefits of the PhD Position
JGU offers doctoral researchers a range of employment and professional development benefits. These include secure and transparent remuneration under the public-sector pay system, as well as additional employment benefits.
The position includes:
- Remuneration according to EG 13 TV-L
- Annual special payment
- Company pension scheme
- Discounted Deutschlandticket
- Flexible working-time arrangements
- Professional and personal development opportunities
- Access to university sports programmes
- Modern research infrastructure and core facilities
- Participation in an interdisciplinary international PhD environment
The combination of research training, professional development, and university resources can provide a strong foundation for a future career in academic research, biotechnology, plant science, or molecular biology.
Career Opportunities and Academic Development
This PhD position is particularly relevant for graduates who want to develop expertise in RNA biology, plant molecular biology, alternative splicing, gene regulation, and molecular physiology. The candidate will gain practical experience with advanced experimental systems and RNA analysis approaches while developing skills in scientific writing, conference presentations, teaching, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Participation in the International PhD Programme can further contribute to the candidate’s academic development and international research experience.
Equal Opportunities and Diversity
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz welcomes qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds. The university aims to increase the number of women in research and teaching and therefore particularly encourages female researchers to apply.
People with severe disabilities and people with disabilities who are treated equally under Section 2 (3) of the German Social Code IX (SGB IX) will receive preferential consideration if they are suitably qualified. Applicants must also satisfy the general requirements under public-service law and the recruitment requirements stipulated in Section 57 of the Higher Education Act of Rhineland-Palatinate (Hochschulgesetz).
This PhD position offers an opportunity to investigate fundamental questions about how plants regulate gene expression through RNA structure, alternative splicing, and RNA-binding proteins. The project combines molecular biology with RNA biochemistry, cell biology, plant physiology, and genome-wide approaches. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to work within an international research environment and collaborate with scientists beyond the Mainz research group.
For graduates with a strong interest in plant molecular biology and RNA biology, the position provides a structured path toward a PhD while developing practical laboratory skills, scientific communication experience, and expertise in modern RNA research.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their complete application by 23 September 2026 using the university’s online “Apply now” application system. The application should include:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic certificates
- German recognition of qualifications, where applicable
- References
- List of publications, if applicable
Applicants should ensure that their academic documents are complete and clearly demonstrate their qualifications and relevant research experience.
For questions and further information about the position, applicants can contact: Prof. Dr. Andreas Wachter
Email: jobs-aw@uni-mainz.de
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the topic of this PhD position?
The PhD project focuses on Plant RNA Biology, particularly the molecular mechanisms by which DEAD-box helicases regulate alternative RNA splicing in plants.
Where is the PhD position located?
The position is based at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) in Mainz, Germany, within the Faculty of Biology and Institute of Molecular Physiology.
What model organism will be used?
The primary model organism is Arabidopsis thaliana, a widely used model plant in molecular and genetic research.
What is the employment level?
The position is offered on a 65% part-time basis and is paid according to EG 13 TV-L.
How long is the PhD position funded?
The position is initially limited to three years and serves the purpose of academic qualification toward a doctorate.
When can the position start?
The position can be filled from 1 December 2026.
Is the PhD project funded?
Yes. The research project is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and can be integrated into the International PhD Programme in Mainz.
What degree is required?
Applicants should have a successfully completed scientific university degree in Biology or a related field.
Is experience in RNA biology required?
A background in plant molecular biology and/or RNA biology is expected. Practical experience with a range of molecular methods is also desirable.
What English language level is required?
Applicants should have very good English language skills, with a minimum level of B2.
What research techniques will be used?
The project will use molecular biology, RNA biochemistry, cell biology, and plant physiology approaches. Research will include transcriptome-wide alternative-splicing analysis and mapping of protein-RNA interactions using modern experimental techniques.
What is the application deadline?
The complete application must be submitted by 23 September 2026 through the university’s “Apply now” system.
Who can applicants contact for further information?
Questions about the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. Andreas Wachter at jobs-aw@uni-mainz.de.
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