PhD Student for Structural Characterisation of α-Synuclein-Lipid Complexes Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences in Germany

The Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Department of NMR-based Structural Biology, invites applications for a PhD position focused on the structural characterisation of α-Synuclein-lipid complexes. This project is part of the EU-funded HORIZON-MSCA-DN-2024-01 LipAgg network, which unites academic and industrial partners across five European countries to advance understanding of lipid roles in protein aggregation toxicity and propagation.

The successful candidate will establish protocols to generate α-Synuclein-lipid complexes from recombinant α-Synuclein and near physiological vesicle preparations. Stability will be assessed using FIDA/Prometheus, and structural analysis will be performed at near atomic resolution using solid state NMR. The research will also involve photo-bleaching techniques to determine stoichiometry and molecular dynamics, as well as studying the influence of aggregation modulators on complex structure. Preparation of physiologically relevant particles will use cellular starting material.

The PhD student will be enrolled at the University of Göttingen in the Gauss program and will work primarily at the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Christian Griesinger (structure determination, 29 months). The project includes a 6-month secondment at the University of Copenhagen (supervised by Prof. Dr. Céline Galvagnion-Büll) to optimize preparation of α-Synuclein-lipid complexes, and a 1-month secondment at Bruker (Ettlingen, Germany) to learn about the latest NMR developments.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, biochemistry, or biophysics, with a strong background or interest in NMR-based structure elucidation and preparation of biologically relevant samples. Candidates should be highly motivated, persistent, and results-oriented, able to work independently and collaboratively. Excellent English communication skills and strong organizational abilities are required. Eligibility rules of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions apply: candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than twelve months in the three years prior to recruitment, and must be in the first five years of their research career without a doctoral degree.

Funding is provided for 36 months, with a gross salary of 4,768.12€ per month plus a 660€ family allowance if eligible, in accordance with MSCA regulations. The salary includes a living allowance, mobility allowance, and family allowance. The LipAgg network offers outstanding training, research stays, and opportunities to participate in international congresses and scientific meetings.

To apply, submit your application as a single PDF file by email to [email protected] by 17 May 2026. Required documents include CV (with methodological skills), motivation letter, copy of Master’s degree (or proof of expected completion), Master thesis (if available), all academic transcripts, and contact information for at least two references. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Christian Griesinger ([email protected]) or Prof. Dr. Céline Galvagnion-Büll ([email protected]).

The Max Planck Institute is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, welcoming applications from all backgrounds and aiming to increase the number of employees with disabilities.