Postdoctoral researcher (f/m/x) in plant-microbe interactions

We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region.

Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne

make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in

science, technology, and administration.

Postdoctoral researcher (f/m/x)

in plant-microbe interactions

The Terrestrial Microbiology lab studies molecular plant–

microbe interactions with a focus on biotrophic fungal

pathogens, in particular smut fungi. We are searching for a

postdoctoral scientist with a strong interest in fungal effector

biology and/or intermicrobial interactions. We invite self-

motivated candidates with a proven background in molecu-

lar plant-microbe interactions to apply for this position.

YOUR TASKS

» Conduct and manage a research project in the

Terrestrial Microbiology Lab

» Investigate the role of effector proteins for microbial-

competiton of plant-colonizing smut fungi

» Supervise undergraduate student projects and

contribute to the BSc and MSc teaching activities of the

lab

» Develop your own research focus

» Publish research data and acquire third-party funding

YOUR PROFILE

» PhD in Biology or in a related discipline with a strong,

proven background in molecular plant-microbe

interactions

» Evidence of expertise in microbial genetics is mandatory

» Hands-on experience in computational data

analysis (comparative genomics, transcriptomics and/

oramplicon sequencing) is apprechiated

» Excellent English skills, both written and spoken

WE OFFER

» State-of-the-art laboratories and an excellent

research infrastructure

» A diverse working environment with equal opportunities

» Support in balancing work and family life

» Extensive advanced training opportunities

» Occupational health management offers

» Flexible working time models

» Opportunity to work remotely

The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and

diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accord-

ance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-West-

phalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also

expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates

regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social

origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

The position is available from 1 January 2027 on a full-time

basis (39,83 hours per week). The position is to be filled

for a fixed term of up to 3 years. If the applicant meets the

relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications,

the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the

pay scale for the German public sector.

Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications

without a photo under: https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de.

The reference number is Wiss2609-10. The application

deadline is 18.10.2026.

For further inquiries, please contact Professor Dr Gunther

Doehlemann (g.doehlemann@uni-koeln.de) and take a look

at our FAQs.

Institute for Plant Sciences | CEPLAS

Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences