Postdoc (m/f/d) to study Structural Biology of fungal G-Protein coupled receptors
Heinrich Heine University of Dusseldorf, Germany
Application deadline: 01 Aug 2026
The research group of Dr. Florian Altegoer at the Institute of Microbiology (Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf) investigates molecular communication mechanisms in fungal host–microbe interactions. Our goal is to understand how fungi sense their environment and coordinate complex behaviors such as infection and symbiosis.
This project focuses on a newly discovered peptide-mediated G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling system in the plant pathogen Ustilago maydis (see preprint here). The successful candidate will dissect the molecular and structural basis of receptor activation and signaling. To achieve this, we combine molecular biology, protein biochemistry, microbiology, and structural biology approaches, with a strong emphasis on single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) of membrane proteins. The postdoctoral researcher will work on a BIS-funded project entitled “Deciphering the molecular language of fungal peptide GPCR signaling”. Key objectives include:
- Biochemical reconstitution of a fungal GPCR–peptide signaling system
- Expression and purification of membrane proteins
- Structure determination of GPCRs in ligand-free and ligand-bound states using cryo-EM
- Functional characterization of receptor activation mechanisms
- Comparative analysis with other fungal GPCR systems
Your Profile
- PhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, Biophysics, or a related field
- Strong background in protein biochemistry, especially membrane protein expression and purification
- Experience with structural biology techniques (cryo-EM experience is highly desirable but not strictly required)
- Experience in molecular cloning and heterologous protein expression systems
- Experience in GPCR biology, membrane proteins, or peptide–receptor interactions is an advantage
- Basic knowledge of microbiology or fungal biology is beneficial
- High motivation to establish and troubleshoot complex experimental workflows
- Willingness to learn and implement new techniques, particularly in cryo-EM
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary and international environment
- Willingness to supervise Bachelor and Master students
- Proactive, creative, and reliable working style
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Fluent in spoken and written English
For more information and to apply, see our website.
