2nd Phase

PhD Student (m/f/d) Molecular Botany
Reference number: WM FB Biologie 1531

  • Term limitation: limited to 4 years
  • Beginning: as soon as possible
  • Location: Kaiserslautern
  • Scope: Part time 65 %
  • Remuneration: According 13 TV-L
  • Faculty: Biology

Research in the Molecular Botany Lab focuses on redox biology and aims to understand the local and dynamic levels of reactive oxygen species as well as their effects and detoxification. At the molecular level, we investigate how plants grow, regulate their development and survive in dynamicand adverse environmental conditions.

Your area of responsibility:

  • Planning, implementation and analysis of experiments investigating the biochemistry, physiology, reproduction and evolution of plants
  • All standard methods of molecular biology as well as confocal microscopy and work with genetically encoded biosensors
  • Establishment of new methods
  • Continuous improvement of personal skills in scientific research and problem solving
  • Participation in national and international research projects within the frame of the Research Unit „Innovation and Coevolution in Plant Sexual Reproduction“ (ICIPS)
  • Presenting and discussing research at national and international conferences
  • Publications in international peer-reviewed journal

Your requirements profile:

  • Scientific university degree (Master of Science, diploma or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, Agricultural Sciences or a comparable topic
  • Motivation to develop and successfully put into practice a research project with a focus on molecular biology
  • A high interest in redox biology, microscopy and in working with plant model organisms
  • High personal motivation and ability to work in an international team
  • Advanced English language skills; German language skills are of advantage but not a prerequisite

We offer:

  • Health promotion
  • Family Service Center
  • Vocational Training
  • Flexible working hour and home office
  • Jobticket
  • Retirement provision
  • Sport & Fitness programms
  • Culture & Leisure offers
  • Local recreation in the Palatinate Forest

RPTU stands for diversity among all employees. We welcome applications from all interested parties, regardless of their ethnic and social origin, age, religion, gender, disability and sexual orientation or identity. Preference will be given to severely disabled persons and persons equivalent to them if they have the appropriate qualifications and suitability.
The RPTU aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are underrepresented. Applications from researchers from abroad are expressly encouraged.

Your application:

We look forward to receiving your detailed application (short motivation letter, CV, certificates) by 30.11.2025 at the latest.
Please submit your application via our application portal (https://jobs.rptu.de/jobposting/5d2c1c855638f8a34d3208ae59dad2bb22913c230).

PhD Position in Plant Developmental Biology
(65% part-time, 4 years, starting Jan 1, 2026)

Join us as a Research Assistant in Plant Developmental Biology at the Institute of Botany in Gießen, Germany! This exciting opportunity is part of the innovative research unit “Innovation and Coevolution in Plant Sexual Reproduction – ICIPS II” and offers the chance to conduct groundbreaking research in a dynamic, inclusive environment. About the Position: We are seeking a motivated researcher to join our team for a four-year appointment. This position is perfect for someone eager to further their academic qualifications while contributing to fundamental research in the field of molecular evolution and plant sexual reproduction.

Your Research Tasks:

  • Mutant analysis in diverse land plant lineage
  • Leading protein interaction experiments
  • Molecular evolutionary analyses

What We Offer:

  • Exciting professional development opportunities through our comprehensive training program
  • A strong scientific network embedded in the ICIPS research unit
  • Plenty of opportunities to present and publish your research findings
  • Free local public transportation (Hessen LandesTicket)
  • Competitive salary according to TV-H pay scale 13 (65%) and no tuition fee
  • Family-friendly workplace with childcare support
  • Flexible working hours

Your Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology with a focus on plant sciences, molecular biology, or genetics
  • Practical experience (e.g. from your M.Sc. thesis) with mutant analysis, transcriptome analysis, and protein interaction experiments
  • Strong English communication skills (working language of the lab)
  • Enthusiasm for collaborative research in an international team

Why Work With Us?

The research group of Prof. Dr. Annette Becker at JLU Gießen offers an exceptional environment for PhD students, combining cutting-edge plant developmental biology with a supportive, collaborative atmosphere. Our lab specializes in integrating diverse model systems (including bryophytes, ferns, and several flowering plants) to uncover fundamental mechanisms of plant reproduction and development. We provide advanced technical resources including next-generation sequencing, CRISPRCas9 genome editing, and innovative phenotypic analysis methods, all within a wellequipped laboratory facility. As a PhD student, you’ll gain valuable experience as a member of the internationally recognized research unit ICIPS with strong connections across the plant science community. Working with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team of molecular biologists, geneticists, and bioinformaticians, you’ll benefit from personalized mentoring, regular scientific exchange, and professional development opportunities to establish a strong foundation for your independent scientific career. Our group values innovative thinking and provides the resources and freedom needed to successfully complete your PhD research. JLU Giessen is certified as a family-friendly university and is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, disability, ethnic origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, or identity. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge plant research while advancing your academic career!

How to Apply:

Please submit your application through our online portal (https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/ueber-uns/karriere/bewerbung) by November 13, 2025, quoting reference number 507/08.

At JLU, we support equal opportunities and prioritize applications from candidates with disabilities who meet the job requirements. We look forward to receiving your application and to potentially welcoming you to our vibrant and welcoming research community!