Katharina Scherf

The Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich (LeibnizLSB@TUM) is seeking a committed PhD student to join its research groups in Food Biopolymer Chemistry and Mechanoreceptors. This institute, located in Freising and a member of the Leibniz Association, integrates advanced biomolecular research, bioinformatics, and high-performance analytical technologies to investigate the complex interactions between the human organism and food components. The research project focuses on elucidating interactions between biopolymers and low-molecular compounds, such as those between plant proteins and starch. The work will combine modern instrumental natural product analysis with biophysical techniques, including the development and establishment of new methods. The successful candidate will receive thorough training in their area of responsibility and have access to a wide range of professional and personal development opportunities, health promotion initiatives, and flexible working arrangements, including the option for mobile working (home office). The position is part-time (TV-L 13, 65%) and initially limited to three years. It includes a company pension scheme (VBL) and annual bonus. The institute offers a collegial working atmosphere with flat hierarchies and short decision-making processes, and is committed to equal opportunities, diversity, and a respectful working environment. Applicants with severe disabilities or equivalent status will be given preferential consideration in cases of essentially equal qualification. Applicants should hold an excellent master's degree in food chemistry, food technology, biochemistry, biophysics, or a closely related field. A high level of self-motivation, analytical and creative thinking, and a strong interest in learning new topics and biophysical techniques (such as atomic force microscopy) are essential. Basic knowledge of (food) chemistry, analytics, biophysics, and/or microscopy, as well as very good written and spoken English, are required. To apply, candidates should send a comprehensive CV, motivation letter, and transcripts as a PDF file, stating the reference number 2025-19-S1/S2-KS/MK, via email by 15 December 2025 to Anja Albrecht (Administration) at [email protected]. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Katharina Scherf or Dr. Melanie Köhler at their provided emails. Please review the data protection information before submitting your application. More information about the institute and the position can be found at LeibnizLSB@TUM and the application portal .

The Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich (Leibniz-LSB@TUM) is seeking a committed PhD Student to join the Food Biopolymer Chemistry research group (Section I), starting October 1, 2026. This part-time position (TV-L 13, 65%) is initially limited to three years and is embedded within the Graduate College “The Proteomes that Feed the World.” Leibniz-LSB@TUM is a leading member of the Leibniz Association, integrating advanced biomolecular research, bioinformatics, and high-performance analytical technologies to investigate the complex interactions between the human organism and food components. The institute is based in Freising, Germany, and offers a vibrant scientific community with strong academic and industry partnerships. The doctoral project focuses on mining the crop proteome atlas for food quality-related proteins, including those relevant to agronomy, food safety, processing, product development, and nutritional value. Research will examine how genetics and environmental stress affect these proteins during plant development, with the goal of improving nutritional value and predicting potential allergens in new plant protein sources. The program aims to train future leaders in science, industry, and society through professional training and project management, offering opportunities to acquire transferable skills and take on substantial responsibility. Applicants should have an excellent master's degree in food chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or a related field. Essential skills include a high level of self-motivation, analytical and creative thinking, a hands-on attitude, and strong interpersonal and intercultural abilities. Specialist knowledge in food chemistry and instrumental analytics, particularly LC-MS/MS, is required, along with very good written and spoken English. The institute offers thorough training, a wide range of professional and personal development opportunities, health promotion, flexible working hours (including home office), a collegial atmosphere with flat hierarchies, company pension scheme (VBL), and annual bonus payment. The position is suitable for disabled persons, who will be given preference in cases of equal qualification. To apply, submit a cover letter, comprehensive CV, and transcripts as a PDF file, referencing 2026-07-S1-KS, by email to Anja Albrecht ([email protected]) by June 7, 2026. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Katharina Scherf ([email protected]). More information about the research group is available at this link . Please review the data protection information before submitting your application.