PhD in Molecular Physiology of Photosynthesis — LMU Munich

Key details

• Host institution: Prinzessin Therese von Bayern Chair of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
• Location: Prinzessin Therese von Bayern Chair of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Menzinger Str. 67, Munich, Germany
• Application deadline: August 5, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

Research Assistant (PhD Candidate) in Molecular Physiology of Photosynthesis (m/f/x)

The Prinzessin Therese von Bayern Chair of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) invites applications for a PhD position in the research group of Prof. Dr. Renata Callegari Ferrari. The group studies photosynthetic adaptations that enable plants to thrive under stress, focusing on non-model species—particularly facultative plants that combine multiple photosynthetic types (e.g., C3-CAM, C4-CAM, or C3-C4 intermediates). These plants are fast-responding and resilient, and the group aims to understand the molecular mechanisms behind their adaptability, signaling, biochemical adjustments, and triggers, using physiological, biochemical, and molecular approaches.

Your Tasks and Responsibilities

• Develop and conduct research on the regulation of the C4-CAM photosynthetic switch in Portulaca species, with a focus on the role of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase kinase
• Perform experiments and generate project-relevant data
• Manage and analyze research data; publish findings in peer-reviewed journals; present results at national and international conferences
• Supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students
• Contribute to teaching activities

Your Qualifications

• Completed (or near-completed) Master’s degree in Plant Science, Plant Biotechnology, Plant Biochemistry, or a related field
• Enthusiasm for basic research and strong interest in plant physiology and photosynthesis
• Excellent English language skills (fluent); German skills are a plus
• Desirable: previous wet lab experience (gas exchange, biochemical assays such as enzyme activity and metabolite quantification, molecular assays including nucleic acid extraction and qRT-PCR) and bioinformatic skills (e.g., R or Python for statistical and RNA-Seq analysis, proteomics)
• Team player, reliable, communicative, and flexible
• Independent and creative working style with high commitment

We Offer

• A stimulating research environment in a young, highly motivated international team (in collaboration with AG Kadereit)
• Workplace at the Institute of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants, LMU Munich (Menzinger Str. 67, 80638 Munich), located at the Botanical Garden Munich-Nymphenburg, with office, laboratories, experimental greenhouse, and research facilities
• Flexible working hours, support for work-life balance, professional training and personal development through LMU services, and corporate benefits
• Remuneration according to TV-L E13 (65%), limited until October 2029

Application

Please send your application documents (letter of motivation describing how your expertise and ambitions match the research theme, max. one page; CV; name and contact information for your Master’s thesis supervisor and one other reference; copies of degree certificates and transcripts) as a single PDF via email to Prof. Dr. Renata Callegari Ferrari ([email protected]) no later than August 5, 2026. For questions about the position, contact Prof. Ferrari exclusively via email. Only documents received before the deadline will be evaluated. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews. Updates on the process will not be provided until selection is completed.

Women are strongly encouraged to apply. People with disabilities who are equally qualified will receive preferential treatment. Start date: November 1, 2026.