PhD Position in Single-Molecule Microscopy & Optics (ERC funded) University of Graz in Austria

The Molecular Biophysics Group at the Institute of Molecular Biosciences (IMB), University of Graz, led by Professor Georg Krainer, is offering a PhD position focused on single-molecule microscopy and optics, funded by the ERC. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team working at the interface of biophysics, biochemistry, and molecular biology. The research will involve developing advanced single-molecule fluorescence and microfluidic approaches, including confocal microscopy, TIRF, and single-molecule FRET, for applications in biophysics, bioanalysis, and biosensing. The group provides state-of-the-art facilities for single-molecule research and microfluidics, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment. Applicants should have or be close to completing a Master's degree in Physics, Biophysics, or a related discipline, with expertise in optics and microscopy, experimental setup design, assay development, and data analysis/programming (preferably MATLAB or Python). Experience in microfluidics and single-molecule fluorescence is desirable. The position offers a 4-year fixed-term contract (1+3 years), 75% FTE, with a gross annual salary of approximately 39,000 €, and is funded through the ERC. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with the start date as soon as possible or upon mutual agreement. To apply, candidates should send a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV, publication record, and contact information for 2–3 references to [email protected]. The University of Graz is one of Austria’s largest academic institutions, located in the vibrant city of Graz, and the IMB provides cutting-edge infrastructure for interdisciplinary research. The group’s motto is "We work for tomorrow."