PhD Position in Experimental Space Biology and Biophysics
Investigate microbial survival and physiological responses under space conditions for the ESA Exocube mission.
Best for:Best for biology or biophysics graduates with hands-on microbiological and laboratory simulation experience.
Overview
The ElsaesserLab at Justus Liebig University Giessen invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focusing on experimental space biology and biophysics. The successful candidate will contribute to the ExocubeBio project as part of the ESA-selected Exocube experiment for the International Space Station. The research examines how microorganisms adapt and survive under severe environmental stresses, employing techniques such as microbial cultivation, microfluidic experiments, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The role requires active participation in laboratory simulations, data analysis, and collaboration within an interdisciplinary research team.
What you'll do
- Conduct experimental research on microbial survival and physiological responses under simulated space conditions
- Perform microbial cultivation and maintain cultures for various environmental stress assays
- Design and execute microfluidic experiments alongside in-situ fluorescence and absorption measurements
- Analyze experimental data and contribute to scientific publications and project reports
- Collaborate with international partners and support the ESA-selected Exocube and ExocubeBio mission objectives
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in microbiology, biology, biophysics, biotechnology, or a related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency for academic communication and publication
Instruction: English
- Practical laboratory experience in microbiological methods
- Proficiency in microbial cultivation techniques
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for experimental design
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research team
- Holds a recognized Master's degree in a relevant discipline
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-03
Interested candidates should submit their application materials through the online portal linked in the job advertisement before the specified deadline. Ensure all required personal and academic documents are attached to the submission.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Master's degree certificate
- Transcripts
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