PhD Position in Regulation and Evolution of Bacterial Multicellularity (Microbiology, Evolutionary Biology)

A fully funded PhD position is available in the research group "Cellular Microbiology" at Leibniz University Hannover, Germany, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Natalia Tschowri, in close collaboration with Prof. Dr. Daniel Rozen at Leiden University, Netherlands. The project, titled "Regulation and Evolution of Bacterial Multicellularity," is part of the DFG Priority Programme SPP2389 and focuses on identifying key regulatory and signalling components that govern the transition between unicellular and multicellular lifestyles in Streptomyces. Research will be conducted at both Hannover and Leiden, offering an international and interdisciplinary environment. The project aims to dissect how regulatory and signalling networks control developmental transitions in Streptomyces, a genus of bacteria known for their prolific production of antibiotics and complex life cycles. By understanding how multicellular-like behaviours evolve and stabilize in bacteria, the research addresses fundamental questions in microbiology and evolutionary biology. The work will involve advanced techniques in protein biochemistry, bacterial genetics, fluorescence microscopy, and bioinformatics. Applicants should hold an MSc or equivalent in Microbiology, Evolutionary Biology, or a related field, with experience in biochemical, molecular, microbiological, and/or evolutionary methods. Additional skills in protein biochemistry, bacterial genetics/manipulation, microscopy, and bioinformatics are advantageous. Excellent written and spoken English, strong motivation, and team spirit are essential. The position is fully funded for 36 months (TV-L E13, 65%) and includes research stays at both institutions. The application deadline is 15 March 2026. To apply, candidates should prepare a single PDF containing a motivation letter, CV, certificates/transcripts, and contact details of two academic referees, and email it to Prof. Natalia Tschowri at [email protected]. For more information, applicants can consult the DFG SPP2389 programme page.