Here you find the profiles of the participating professors in the Natural and Life Sciences. This list is constantly updated. You can conveniently apply directly at the end of each profile: please download and fill in the application form and send it to us via e-mail (use the blue button at the end of the PDF form) by 15 February 2024. Please keep in mind to attach your CV and a publication list to the e-mail.
Important note: In case you would like to work with a researcher who has not uploaded a profile, please fill in the application form (PDF) and send it with your academic CV and a publication list to research-explorer@rs.rub.de by 15 February 2024 so that we can get in touch with the respective professor. Do NOT send any kind of application to a professor directly.
Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology
Research Group Microbial Biotechnology (MBT)
Host's Website
Research Area:
The MBT Team is interdisciplinary working to describe novel biocatalysts: from gene to product. It combines versatile methods from disciplines as microbiology, molecular biology, bio-/chemistry and biocatalysis.
Currently we have projects on the remediation of xenebiotics such as dyes by means of cell-free as well as whole-cell systems, we establish molecular biological tools for actinobacteria such as Rhodococcus and Gordonia which are of industrial relevance, we work on lignin valorization by means of oxidases, have projects on enzyme cascades towards fine chemicals (mostly by oxidoreductases) and in collaboration we establish bioelectrotechnology work flows for the production of valuable compounds.
Candidate Profile:
We are looking for a team player with interest in applied microbiology and industrial biotechnology. You should bring in some molecular biology methods and have the enthusiasm to transfer those to actinobacter like rhodococcus. A focal point can be the production of siderophores or biosurfactants. Hence, microbiology and fermentation strategies are neccesary as well as product recovery methods.
Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology
Chair of Cellular Physiology
Host's Website
Research Area:
We use novel, optical approaches to study membrane proteins, in particular to understand how protein complexes assemble and transmit signals across cell membranes. Our main focus is on glutamate receptor signaling. Glutamate receptors (GluRs) play a key role in the central nervous system, where they pass excitatory signals across synapses and modulate synaptic strength and plasticity. In our lab, we combine a wide range of state-of-the-art biochemical methods, spectroscopic techniques, live cell imaging and electrophysiology to gain further insight into GluR function, pharmacology and physiology. As part of our toolset we use chemical photoswitches to manipulate GluRs with light – a method that allows for the precise control of specific receptor complexes with high spatial and temporal precision. At the same time, the engineering of photo-controllable ion channels and GPCRs provides a powerful tool for optogenetic and pharmacological studies.
Candidate Profile:
We are looking forward to host a motivated and independently thinking scientist, who is interested in exploring projects in the areas of chemical biology, cellular signaling, optogenetics, neurophysiology or pharmacolgy. Required is an excellent academic track record with a recent PhD in Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related discipline, as well as a very high motivation to engage in interdisciplinary research and the ability to work in a team. Experimental research experience and very good English skills are mandatory.
Organic Chemistry I
Evonic Chair of Organic Chemistry
Host's Website
Research Area:
Candidate Profile:
If you ...
you might be just the right person for us.
Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Chair of Molecular Biochemistry
Host's Website
Research Area:
A fundamental feature of eukaryotic cells is their compartmentalisation into different organelles by biological membranes. We are interested in elucidating the organisation, function and dynamics of membrane transporters and their complexes. To achieve this goal, we have pioneered a range of cutting-edge techniques in biochemistry, biophysics and advanced microscopy. Our methodological repertoire includes the synthesis of tailor-made lipid probes, allowing us to characterise membrane properties in detail, to study protein-membrane interactions and to investigate lipid trafficking across fungi, parasites and mammalian cells. Model organisms such as baker's yeast, unicellular parasites and mammalian cell cultures serve as invaluable tools in our studies. Using these model systems, we have successfully identified lipid transporters that play critical roles in vesicle formation and cellular signalling. Interestingly, these membrane transporters are the least understood components within the molecular network that controls cell function and development. Our ongoing research is focused on elucidating the precise molecular functions and regulatory mechanisms of these transporters.
Candidate Profile:
We would like to encourage candidates who have or are about to complete a PhD in Chemistry, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics or related fields and who are interested in working on membrane transporters at the cellular and/or molecular level. We are looking for candidates with a strong interest/expertise in fungal or parasitic cell culture who wish to acquire expertise in the purification and reconstitution of membrane proteins to study their structure and regulation. We are also looking for candidates with a strong interest in single-molecule microscopy techniques (FLIM, TIRF) who wish to acquire expertise in the analysis of membrane transporters at the single-molecule level. We expect good English skills, team spirit and the ability to work independently. Knowledge of molecular techniques, protein biochemistry and/or fungal/parasitic cell biology would be a further advantage.
Faculty of Chemistry
Chair of Physical Chemistry I
Host's Website
Research Area:
We are an interdisciplinary research group of chemists, biologists, and physicists working on molecular spectroscopy. To address both fundamental and applied research questions, we employ various Raman spectroscopic methods. Primarily, we use surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), resonance Raman (RR) scattering and non-linear Raman techniques such as coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS).
Our interests in basic/fundamental research and method development include: i) chiraloptical-sensitive molecular spectroscopy on asymmetric organocatalysts, ii) the synthesis of isotope-labeled peptides for site-specific UVRR, and iii) single-molecule analysis. In our applied research, we utilize molecular spectroscopy for i) the detection of nanogold in diagnostic applications, ii) the fabrication of nanogold for molecular spectroscopy, and iii) the improvement of these synthesis methods by using an in-house developed synthesis robot to get insights into the critical steps of nanoparticle synthesis.
Candidate Profile:
The perfect candidate has demonstrated expertise in one of the following Raman spectroscopic methods: surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), resonance Raman scattering, non-linear coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering.
Essential qualities include a strong foundation in molecular spectroscopy and/or experience in synthesizing nanomaterials, and a keen interest in fundamental or applied research. The ideal candidate should exhibit teamwork, excellent communication skills, and/or a collaborative mindset for interdisciplinary research. We welcome individuals who are self-driven, capable of independent research, and passionate about contributing to advancements in the field.
Faculty of Chemistry
Chair of Physical Chemistry I
Host's Website
Research Area:
We combine our knowledge in physical chemistry and engineering to study complex multiphase (solid/gas/liquid) catalytic reaction systems stimulated by (solar) light or electrical energy. Moreover, we integrate thermal energy or other stimuli to synergistically improve catalytic performances. Reactions of interest include water oxidation, production of oxidizing chemicals, hydrogen generation, selective alcohol oxidation, oxidative decarboxylation of carboxylic acids and purification of (industrial) waste streams using metal oxides and carbon based compounds.
Candidate Profile:
Candidates hold a doctoral degree in chemistry, material science or a related field. Experience in electrochemistry and/or photoelectrochemistry /photocatalysis, a strong background with demonstrated experience in the synthesis and characterization of materials and knowledge of quantitative analytical chemistry methods are essential.
Faculty of Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Research group Giese
Host's Website
Research Area:
The research in our group focuses on supramolecular functional materials. Here we employ the concepts of supramolecular chemistry for the design of novel responsive materials. Current research topics in the Giese group are:
* supramolecular liquid crystals
* photonic materials (photonic sensors, photonic data storage)
* responsive materials
* 3D printing of dynamic covalent materials
Candidate Profile:
Potential candidates should have experience in the field of organic synthesis, the characterization of liquid crystalline materials (e.g. by DSC, POM, SAXS/WAXS).
Faculty of Medicine
Nuclear Medicine
Research group Preclinical Theranostics
Host's Website
Research Area:
Our group focuses on theranostics with the goal to deliver new insights into tumor biology, heterogeneity and metabolism and their relationship and relevance to functional imaging and biomarker-driven treatments in nuclear medicine. Theranostics use radioligands that bind to cell surface receptors on target cells. Radioligands enable imaging of target expression by positron emission tomography. The same ligand labeled with alpha or beta radiation emitting isotopes delivers therapeutic radiation specifically to target expressing tissues (radionuclide therapy; RNT), and allows targeting of metastases throughout the body and irradiation of tumors for hours to days.
RNT is a promising treatment option for various cancers. However, outcomes are rarely curative. We address this clinical need by investigating new RNT modalities and the mechanisms underlying the limited effectiveness of RNT. Poor understanding of these mechanisms represents a key barrier to the development of more effective RNT approaches. To improve RNT outcomes and to establish rationally chosen, translatable RNT-based combination therapies, we characterize cancer mouse models and patient samples, and use diverse in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo analyses to identify targetable RNT-induced alterations in tumor, stroma and immune cells that mitigate the effects of RNT and could be exploited therapeutically.
Candidate Profile:
The candidate will become a part of a newly formed research group in the department of nuclear medicine. We are looking for a curious and self-motivated individual who likes to take on new challenges and enjoys being part of an interdisciplinary team that focuses on translational research at the intersection of cancer biology, (radio)chemistry, molecular/functional imaging and tumor (radio)therapy.
Faculty of Physics
Experimental Physics/MultioptiX Group
Host's Website
Research Area:
Our group’s research focuses on resource-efficient energy conversion and makes use of multioptical concepts for e.g. renewable energy devices. A central work topic is the fabrication of chalcopyrite photovoltaic absorbers and their integration into mostly solar cells. Research ideas are however not limited to this single field but can touch upon neighboring areas of applications or on broadening of the material system while staying with chalcogenides. Aside from the absorbing material, the other layers of the device structure, in particular transparent conductive oxides equally deserve investigation and optimization for efficient integration. Towards novel optical concepts, we investigate nano- and microstructures for light localization and guiding. The fabrication of the different materials is equally important as is their detailed characterization for optical, electrical and thermal properties. Measurements are furthermore consolidated by multiphysics simulations to deepen the understanding of physical working principles.
Candidate Profile:
We are seeking for a highly motivated candidate who can balance working independently with integration into an international and interdisciplinary team. Your background is in physics, chemistry, optics, material science, energy science, nanoscience or a closely related field. A profound knowledge in solid state physics is mandatory, a specialisation in semiconductor physics and/or optics (thin films, nanostructures, concentrators) is ideal. Experience with thin film deposition techniques (physical vapor deposition, solution-processing, printing), nanostructure fabrication or material and device characterization (Raman spectroscopy, time-resolved photoluminescence measurements, electrical characterization, etc.) is desirable. Alternatively, a focus may be on numerical simulations, then knowledge in 3D opto-electrical modeling as well as programming in e.g. Matlab are prerequisites. Excellent English skills are required as well as experience in scientific writing to communicate effectively.
Apply (download application form)
Faculty of Physics
TWIST group (Topological Whirls In SpinTronics)
Host's Website
Research Area:
Magnetism, Spintronics, Skyrmions and domain-walls, Current-induced magnetization dynamics, Antiferromagnets, Berry phases, Topological insulators, (Quantum) Hall effects, Unconventional computing, Neuromorphic computing, Reservoir computing, Stochastic computing, Machine learning, Data based driven inference.
Within the TWIST Group we investigate the complex fundamental physics of topologically protected magnetic structures - skyrmions. In particular, we study the interplay between skyrmions, different magnetic structures, and spin and charge currents. This interplay is governed by microscopic mechanisms within complex materials that must also be understood and engineered. Gaining a deeper understanding of these mechanisms to optimally utilize the properties of skyrmions towards potential spintronics applications is a key focus of our work.
Candidate Profile:
Expertise im Magnetism, theoretical condesed matter, numerical skills, analytical skill, micromagnetic simulations, machine learning experience.
Faculty of Physics
Experimentelle Physik 2
Host's Website
Research Area:
Our research focuses on semiconductor spectroscopy for optical materials. This includes materials for quantum information processing, spintronics, but also efficient semiconductor laser structures. Typical material systems include quantum dots and Perovskites. We are also renowned for cutting edge research on Rydberg excitons, which are giant excitons with mesoscopic dimensions that show exaggerated properties and are extremely good sensors for tiny fields. We routinely apply state of the art spectroscopy using ultrafast pulsed or ultranarrow cw lasers and have developed several tailored techniques for investigating spin systems and benchmarking devices for quantum information processing.
Candidate Profile:
Our ideal candidate has a strong interest in optical spectroscopy and methods and is strongly motivated to perform experimental work in the lab within a small team. A basic understanding of electrodynamics, quantum mechanics and solid state physics is helpful. Programming skills are helpful, but not absolutely necessary. Detailed knowledge about the studied material systems will be taught on the fly.
Faculty of Physics
Experimentelle Physik 2
AG Bayer / UF Acoustics group
Host's Website
Research Area:
We invite a potential candidate to join the group of Ultrafast Acoustics, which is a part of AG Bayer. The group led by Dr. Alexey Scherbakov focuses on interaction of acoustic phonons with various excitations in solids. Phonons are collective vibrational excitations of the crystal lattice, and they are present in all types of materials. When these vibrations are phased (coherent), they become a powerful tool to manipulate other excitations such as carriers, spins, photons, and many others. The versatility of phonons also makes them a promising information carrier in quantum communication and neuromorphic computing.
The phonon frequency range of our interest is between tens of GHz and several THz (1010 – 1012 Hz). Excitation of coherent elastic vibrations of such frequencies and detection of the related effects in the time domain are available for ultrafast optical spectroscopy utilizing ultrashort laser pulses. Moreover,
modern methods of crystal growth and lithography allow one to engineer nanostructures with specific phonon resonances and manipulate coherent phonons of specific frequencies. These approaches are combined in our research activities.
Candidate Profile:
Our perfect candidate:
- Has been or is working on a doctoral degree in physics or materials science.
- Is familiar with the basics of solid-state physics; understands what are photons, phonons, electrons, etc.
- Has basic knowledge of primary optical phenomena such as reflection, scattering and emission of light.
- Has hands-on experience working in the research lab
- Has basic programming skills in one of these languages: Phyton, MATLAB, or C++
- Wants to work in a modern physics lab and is eager to figure out what seems first unclear
- Has good spoken and written English proficiency.
A brilliant candidate also:
- Understands the operation of primary laboratory devices such as spectrometer, photodetector, oscilloscope, etc., and can understand the relevant manual.
- Understands the principles of analyzing temporal signals and spectra, such as Fourier analysis and fitting, and can use appropriate software.
Research Academy Ruhr (RAR) is the cross-university platform of Ruhr-Universität Bochum, TU Dortmund University, and the University of Duisburg-Essen for promoting early career researchers in the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr).
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