Postdoc (m/f/x) - Biochemistry of Aging

Leibniz-Institut für Alternsforschung - Fritz-Lipmann-Institut e. V. (FLI)

The Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) in Jena is a federal and state government-funded research institute and member of the Leibniz Association (Leibniz-Gemeinschaft). FLI conducts internationally recognized, high-impact research on the biology of aging at the molecular, cellular, and systems levels. Scientists from around 40 countries investigate the mechanisms of aging to uncover its root causes and pave the way for strategies that promote healthy aging. (www.leibniz-fli.de)

Our Research Group led by Janine Kirstein, Professorin at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, is looking for a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/x) to join a research project on protein folding and its role in neurodegenerative diseases and for teaching: Research focus of the lab:
The Kirstein Research Group studies the regulation and activity of the proteostasis network and its role in neurodegenerative diseases. We focus in particular on molecular chaperones and their role in regulating the folding landscape of amyloid proteins, such as Huntingtin, Abeta, and Tau.

Your tasks:

• Functional analyses of molecular chaperones and their role in regulating the folding of amyloid proteins in vitro
• Setting up and implementing new workflows to characterize protein assemblies
• Developing experimental strategies, analyzing, documenting, and presenting data
• Coordinating and instruct, a practical course for BSc biochemistry students and supervise MSc students in the lab

Your qualifications:

• PhD in biochemistry, biology or life sciences
• Strong motivation and a genuine interest in pursuing an independent academic career
• Experience in protein biochemistry, imaging, and molecular biology
• Teaching experience and interest in teaching on BSc and MSc level
• Excellent spoken and written English and German (minimum B2 Level)

We Offer:

• You will become part of a world-leading research institute dedicated to the biology of aging and have the opportunity to join a very well-equipped lab with an international team
• Access to multiple state-of-the-art facilities – our work is embedded in the Beutenberg Campus, an interdisciplinary base for innovative research
• A position integrated in the FLI Postdoc Circle, a network connecting FLI postdocs and supporting career development and postdoctoral training
• The contract conditions and the salary will be according to the collective labor agreement for public service employees of the federal states of Germany (TV-L E 13); the position is assigned to Friedrich Schiller University, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics; the employment contract will be agreed with FSU Jena, the workplace will be at the Leibniz Institute for Aging Research (FLI)
• Flexible working time, a family friendly working environment that provides a healthy work-life balance, company health management, including support for child care solutions, and dual career options

Application:
Please apply online through the FLI application portal by November 30, 2025.

FLI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and promotes diversity. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law will receive consideration for employment.