The Biozentrum of the University of Basel (https://www.biozentrum.unibas.ch) is one of the world’s leading life sciences institutes. With 32 groups and 500 employees, we are a dynamic and international research community that has spawned many fundamental discoveries in biology and medicine as well as several Nobel Laureates.

The research group of Prof. Knut Drescher at the Biozentrum of the University of Basel seeks to appoint a PhD student in molecular microbiology, with a focus on bacterial biofilms, to start immediately or as per arrangement.

The project
The research group of Knut Drescher (https://drescherlab.org) focuses on understanding the development and functions of bacterial biofilms, particularly in the context of human infections, using controlled laboratory experiments or clinical samples. Biofilms are antibiotic-tolerant bacterial communities that are the cause of many chronic and acute infections, but biofilms are also a model system for understanding basic aspects of multicellular organization in bacteria. The PhD projects on bacterial biofilms be within the broad set of topics investigated within the research group, and will require a background in molecular microbiology. The exact projects are flexible and will be developed together with Knut Drescher, depending on the strengths and interests of the PhD students.

To get an overview of recent projects, take a look at our publications: https://drescherlab.org/publications.html

Your profile
We are looking for highly motivated and talented PhD students to join our lab. A Master degree in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, bioengineering, or a similar discipline is required. In addition, expertise in molecular microbiology is required. Knowledge in one or more of the following topics is beneficial: biochemistry, metabolism, RNA biology, bacterial genetics, host-pathogen interactions, infection biology.

We offer
We offer a highly interactive, multidisciplinary, and international research group within the Biozentrum. Our group spans expertise in molecular microbiology, biophysics, as well as bioinformatics and the analysis of big datasets. Moreover, the Biozentrum offers excellent internal support from various core facilities with expert staff, and a structured PhD program. Our group embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.

Basel is an international city with people from 150 nations, located on the border where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet. A large number of institutions for biomedical research, with numerous possibilities for training, networking, and career development are located in Basel. Basel provides a high standard of living and a rich and varied cultural atmosphere.

Application
Application deadline: 20 October 2023: https://biped2.biozentrum.unibas.ch/apply/phd-student_molec-biology

Please note that only applications through the online form linked above will be accepted.

The application should include a brief statement of your scientific interests, your research experience, and your particular interest in this open position. In addition, a CV and the contact information of two references is required.

For any informal enquiries, please contact: knut.drescherunibasch