T165-2025 - Research Assistant / PhD student (all genders) - Cell Biology of the Vampire Amoebae (Order Vampyrellida)

TU Darmstadt stands for excellent and relevant science. We are playing a decisive role in shaping far-reaching processes of global change—from energy transition to artificial intelligence—through outstanding scientific knowledge and innovative academic programmes. We group our cutting-edge research into three fields: Energy and Environment, Information and Intelligence, Matter and Materials. We are a university with strong ties to the Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region and a very strong international focus. We are committed to European values and European integration.

The division ‘Biology of Algae and Protozoa’, headed by Professor Dr Sebastian Hess, is interested in the cell biology of ecologically highly specialised protists. We use a variety of methods such as electron microscopy, transcriptome and genome analyses, immunolocalisation of proteins, biochemical assays and more. The division also operates the newly established ‘Unit for Biological Electron Microscopy’ and aims to integrate ultrastructural analyses of protists in various projects. Further foci of the division are the exploration and description of new protist species and ecological studies, from which some of our mechanistic questions arise We are located on the campus ‘Botanischer Garten’ and, together with other research laboratories, represent the organismic biology at the TU Darmstadt.

The order Vampyrellida comprises predatory amoebae that feed on other eukaryotes in a highly specialised way and occur in diverse ecosystems (Hess & Suthaus, 2022: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.protis.2021.125854). The aim of the project is to gain a better cell biological understanding of these extraordinary protists. Specifically, we are interested in questions of motility, cytoskeletal structure, ultrastructure and secretion of enzymes during vampyrellid feeding. The tasks in this project include

• Protocol optimisation for transmission electron microscopy on vampire amoebae
• Comparative description of the ultrastructure of different species
• Visualisation of cytoskeletal proteins using fluorescence microscopy
• Motility analyses using video microscopy
• Laboratory experiments on the interactions with prey cells
• Establishment of interference experiments (e.g. RNAi) with vampire amoebae
• Experiments on the genetic modification of vampire amoebae
• Detailed preparation of manuscripts
• Presentation of scientific results at conferences
• Support in the teaching activities of the department and supervision of student work

An excellent university science degree in biology or biochemistry (M.Sc., Diploma) is required, preferably with a thesis in the field of cell biology and/or ultrastructure research. Experience and knowledge in the fields of electron microscopy, immunocytochemistry and/or genetic modification of eukaryotic cells are advantageous, but not a prerequisite.

We also expect:

• Enthusiasm for cell biological phenomena and microscopy
• Passionate and focussed engagement with the project
• High motivation for personal development
• Contribution of own ideas for the development of the project
• Willingness to travel (e.g. external collaborations)
• Very good communication skills in English
• Affinity for scientific literature and scientific writing
• High social skills and willingness to work in a team
• Reliable and accurate work

Technical University of Darmstadt offers varied and challenging assignments, freedom to work independently, the latest technologies, good collaboration between colleagues in partnership, needs-based training opportunities and customised personnel development.

Opportunity for further qualification (doctoral dissertation) is given. The fulfillment of the duties likewise enables the scientific qualifications of the candidate.

• Development and organisation – comprehensive in-house training offers, including the opportunity for continuing education and development;
• Annual leave/educational leave – 30 days annual leave (full-time employment) and 5 days educational leave;
• Sustainable and mobile – eligibility to free public transport in the state of Hesse with the LandesTicket Hessen (Hesse StateTicket) in accordance with the currently valid collective agreement, in addition to opportunities to working mobile at times;
• Fit and healthy – free of charge preventive medical check-ups and a wide-ranging subsidised sports programme;
• Work-life balance – flexible working time models, plus BGM (Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement – University Health Management);
• Pension scheme – supplementary public service pension scheme (VBL) in accordance with the currently applicable regulations;
• University bicycle
• Family-friendliness/compatibility of family/care/career – (university-run) childcare services, child allowance (based on the collective agreement), childcare programmes during school holidays.

TU Darmstadt intends to increase the number of female employees and encourages female candidates to apply. In case of equal qualifications, applicants with a degree of disability of at least 50 or equal will be given preference. Remuneration is in accordance with the collective agreement for the Technical University of Darmstadt (TV - TU Darmstadt). Part-time employment is generally possible.

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If you have any questions about this position, please contact Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Sebastian Heß under  hess@bio.tu-darmstadt.de .