Nano-Bionics with Single Molecules

Group: Prof. Petra Schwille, Max Planck Institute for Biochemistry, Munich
Website: http://www.biochem.mpg.de/en/rd/schwille/

Our group aims at the understanding of biological phenomena on a fundamental level. To this end, minimal biomolecular systems are constructed from the bottom-up that mimic essential cellular functions, such as protein assembly and self-organization, autocatalysis, gradient formation and polarity induction. We build our systems using protein modules, but also other functional macromolecules such as DNA origami. The following techniques are used in the lab:

· Single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy
· Confocal and superresolution fluorescence microscopy confocal, TIRF, FRAP, STORM
· Single molecule manipulation using optical tweezers and the Atomic Force Microscope
· Molecular biology and protein production
· Micro- and Nanofluidics
· DNA origami nanotechnology.

Our research group consists of independent researchers, postdocs, PhD and Masters students with backgrounds in physics, chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology and cell biology. We are specifically looking for independent thinkers and self-motivated PhD students with excellent track records.

Requirements: The applicant should hold a Masters degree (or equivalent) in (bio-)physics, chemistry or nanotechnology. Experience in single molecule imaging and spectroscopy, microsystems technology and/or DNA nanotechnology is of advantage.

About the institute: The Max-Planck-Institute of Biochemistry is a leader in the field of biochemistry, cell- and structural biology, and biomedicine. With seven scientific departments, more than 30 research groups, and a staff of around 850 scientists, the institute is one of the largest within the Max-Planck-Society.

All candidates have to apply via CeNS’ online application tool. Other forms of application will not be accepted.