Funded PhD Position in Plant Biochemistry and Cell Biology at TUM, Germany
A funded PhD opportunity is available at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany, for candidates interested in plant biochemistry, cell biology, and protein kinase signalling. The position is based at the Chair of Plant Systems Biology within the School of Life Sciences in Freising-Weihenstephan.
The project, titled “Regulation of the phospholipid landscape by AGC1 protein kinases,” seeks a highly motivated doctoral researcher with a strong interest in protein biochemistry and cell biology.
The successful candidate will join an interactive and collaborative research team with an established track record in investigating how AGC1 kinases regulate plant growth and development.
Position highlights
- Position: PhD Researcher in Plant Biochemistry and Cell Biology
- Research project: Regulation of the phospholipid landscape by AGC1 protein kinases
- University: Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- Research unit: Chair of Plant Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences
- Location: Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany
- Funding: Funded PhD position
- Application deadline: Open until filled
- Application method: Email
- Contact: claus.schwechheimer@tum.de
About the Research Project
The doctoral project focuses on the regulation of the phospholipid landscape by AGC1 protein kinases. It builds on the laboratory’s established research into the roles of AGC1 kinases in plant growth and development.
The position is particularly suited to candidates interested in understanding plant biology at the molecular and cellular levels. The advertised research theme combines protein kinase biology with questions concerning phospholipid regulation.
The announcement highlights the laboratory’s research track record and collaborative working environment. Applicants are encouraged to review the group’s research webpage and recent publications to understand the scientific context of the project.
Who Can Apply?
The research group is seeking a highly motivated PhD student with a strong interest in:
- Protein biochemistry.
- Cell biology.
- Plant molecular biology and plant development.
- Protein kinases and their functions in plants.
- Molecular mechanisms regulating plant growth.
The announcement does not provide a detailed list of formal degree requirements, language requirements, or specific laboratory techniques. Applicants should consult the research group directly if they need clarification about eligibility and the expected academic background.
About the Research Group
The Chair of Plant Systems Biology at TUM investigates molecular processes involved in plant growth and development. The advertised position is part of a research environment with an established record of studying AGC1 kinases and their biological functions.
The group highlights its collaborative and interactive atmosphere, offering a research setting for a doctoral candidate interested in contributing to plant systems biology.
Selected Recent Publications
The announcement lists the following publications from the research team and its collaborators:
2026
Bassukas, A. E. L., Xiao, Y., Kim, N., and Schwechheimer, C. “PAX-regulated self-organizing polarity drives procambial strand formation.” Nature Plants. DOI: 10.1038/s41477-026-02382-w.
2025
Xiao, Y., Zourelidou, M., Bassukas, A. E. L., et al. “The protein kinases KIPK and KIPK-LIKE1 suppress overbending during negative hypocotyl gravitropic growth in Arabidopsis.” The Plant Cell, 37, koaf056. DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koaf056.
2024
Janacek, D. P., Kolb, M., Schulz, L., et al. “Transport properties of canonical PIN-FORMED proteins from Arabidopsis and the role of the loop domain in auxin transport.” Developmental Cell. DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.09.020.
Graf, A., Bassukas, A. E. L., Xiao, Y., et al. “D6PK plasma membrane polarity requires a repeated CXX(X)P motif and PDK1-dependent phosphorylation.” Nature Plants, 10, 300–314. DOI: 10.1038/s41477-023-01615-6.
2018
Marhava, P., Bassukas, A. E. L., Zourelidou, M., et al. “A molecular rheostat adjusts auxin flux to promote root protophloem differentiation.” Nature, 558, 297–300. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-018-0186-z.
These publications provide useful background for applicants wishing to explore the group’s research on plant development, protein kinases, cell polarity, and auxin transport.
How to Apply
To apply, prepare the following documents:
- Letter of motivation explaining your research interests and reasons for applying.
- Curriculum vitae (CV) outlining your academic background, research experience, and relevant skills.
- Send your application by email to: Professor Claus Schwechheimer Email: claus.schwechheimer@tum.de
The position will remain open until filled. No fixed closing date is provided in the announcement, so interested candidates should consider applying as soon as their materials are ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a funded PhD position?
Yes. The supplied announcement explicitly describes the opportunity as a funded PhD student position.
2. Where is the position located?
The position is at the Chair of Plant Systems Biology, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, in Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany.
3. What is the PhD project about?
The project investigates the regulation of the phospholipid landscape by AGC1 protein kinases, building on the laboratory’s research into plant growth and development.
4. What background is preferred?
The group seeks a highly motivated doctoral researcher with a strong interest in protein biochemistry and cell biology. Additional eligibility details should be confirmed with the supervisor.
5. When is the application deadline?
The position remains open until filled. The announcement does not provide a specific deadline.
6. Which documents are required?
The announcement requests a letter of motivation and a CV.
7. How do I submit my application?
Email your letter of motivation and CV to claus.schwechheimer@tum.de.
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