Study of respiratory terminal oxidases Max Planck Institute of Biophysics in Germany

The Max Planck Institute of Biophysics in Frankfurt am Main is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join Prof. Dr. Dr. Hartmut Michel’s emeritus group, formerly the department of Molecular Membrane Biology.

The institute is renowned for its international research environment and multidisciplinary approach, focusing on the molecular structure, dynamics, and function of cellular systems. The successful candidate will investigate the structure-function relationships of respiratory terminal oxidases, emphasizing advanced techniques such as UV-vis spectroscopy and electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM).

Key responsibilities include production, purification, and optimization of terminal oxidase samples for structural studies, spectroscopic characterization of catalytic reaction intermediates, and single particle cryo-EM sample preparation, data collection, density determination, interpretation, and model building. Applicants should possess a PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, or biophysics, with substantial experience in membrane protein research, cryo-EM, and spectroscopic methods (UV-vis, FTIR, Raman).

Additional expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry, and budding yeast genetics (molecular cloning, protein expression, purification) is required. The institute offers a dynamic and supportive environment, training on state-of-the-art instruments, diverse projects, and excellent infrastructure. The position is funded according to the German TVöD (Federal Government Collective Wage Agreement), including a corporate pension plan, family services, health management, and support for the Deutschland-Job-Ticket.

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, and contact details for 2-3 references, submitted via the application portal by 17 November 2025. The Max Planck Society is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities.