Philipp Popp

Humboldt University of Berlin is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher in bacterial cell biology for an Einstein Foundation Berlin-funded project on bacteria-phage interactions and anti-phage defense responses . The project, BacDefiant, investigates how bacteria detect and respond to bacteriophage infection at the single-cell level . Research topics include bacterial immunity, phage-host interactions, bacterial genetics, live-cell microscopy, microfluidics, quantitative image analysis, and molecular/cell biology. The lab uses high-resolution live-cell imaging, engineered bacterial strains, fluorescent reporters, quantitative assays, and custom analysis pipelines to study the timing, hierarchy, synergy, and redundancy of bacterial defense systems. This is a strong fit for candidates interested in microbiology, imaging, microfluidics, phage biology, and bacterial genetics. The position is based at the Institute of Biology, Molecular Infection Microbiology at Humboldt University of Berlin. It is a full-time role funded until 30 September 2030 , with a start date of 1 October 2026 . The project is supported by the Einstein Foundation Berlin with €1.4M over four years . Application deadline: 23 June 2026. How to apply: Send a single PDF application to [email protected] and include the Job ID DR/089/26 .

Humboldt University of Berlin is recruiting a PhD / pre-doctoral researcher in bacterial cell biology for the Einstein Foundation Berlin-funded project BacDefiant . The project investigates bacterial-phage interactions and anti-phage defense responses at the single-cell level. Research methods include bacterial genetics , high-resolution live-cell microscopy , microfluidics , quantitative image analysis , and other molecular/cell biological approaches . The lab focuses on how bacterial defense systems coordinate in real time, with strong relevance to microbiology , phage biology , host-phage interactions , and cell biology . Candidates with interest in imaging, microfluidics, and bacterial genetics are especially encouraged to apply. Funding: 75% position, funded until 30 September 2030. Start date: 1 October 2026. Deadline: 23 June 2026. How to apply: Send a single PDF application by email to [email protected]. More information is available via the linked lab and job pages.

The BacDefiant research program, led by Philipp Popp at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, is launching with €1.4M in funding from the Einstein Foundation Berlin. The program focuses on cutting-edge research in bacterial immunity, specifically exploring anti-phage defense mechanisms using high-resolution live-cell microscopy and genetic engineering. The team aims to monitor bacterial immune responses in real time and map the coordination of immune modules at the single-cell level. Positions are open for both PhD students and postdoctoral researchers who are passionate about bacterial immunity, phage-host interactions, advanced microscopy, and quantitative image analysis. The research environment is highly interdisciplinary, combining microbiology, immunology, and advanced imaging techniques. Candidates with experience in genetic engineering, live-cell imaging, or computational analysis of biological data are especially encouraged to apply. The BacDefiant team is based in Berlin, offering access to excellent research infrastructure and a vibrant scientific community. Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is a leading research university, part of the Berlin University Alliance, and is recognized for its commitment to scientific excellence and international collaboration. Applicants should have a relevant academic background (PhD for postdoc positions, MSc or equivalent for PhD positions) and a strong interest in interdisciplinary research. The program is supported by substantial funding, ensuring a stimulating and well-resourced environment for early-career scientists. While specific details about stipends and tuition are not provided, the scale of funding suggests competitive support for successful candidates. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Philipp Popp directly via LinkedIn or through the provided links to learn more about the team and the research vision. The application window is expected to open in 2026, with a deadline at the end of the year. Sharing the announcement and recommending suitable candidates is also welcomed.