PhD Position (m/f/d) Mass Spectrometry Imaging: Biological Effects of Microplastics

Chair of Bioanalytical Sciences and Food Analysis

PhD Position (m/f/d) ‘Mass Spectrometry Imaging: Biological Effects of Microplastics’

in the framework of the Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1357 Microplastics. The part-time (65%) position is initially limited to three years and will be paid according to German public-sector level E13.

The CRC 1357 Microplastics:

The DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre "Microplastics" links the departments of Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics and Earth Sciences at the University of Bayreuth. In its second funding period (2023-2026), the CRC 1357 investigates the biological effects of microplastics on various organisms, the transport of microplastics in and between air, water and soil, the formation and aging of microplastics, and new approaches to solutions in the field of environmentally friendly plastics. As a doctoral researcher within the CRC 1357 you profit from an interdisciplinary team, working on an application-oriented research field and you can contribute answering fundamental questions. All PhD students will receive an individual and interdisciplinary qualification through the University of Bayreuth Graduate School and the structured BayNAT - PhD Program Interdisciplinary Microplastics Sciences, that will link all PhD candidates studying microplastics from all participating disciplines.

Your task:

The aim of project A03 is the “Characterization of molecular and histological effects of microplastics in tissues (sections) of aquatic and terrestrial model organisms". A combination of imaging analysis methods (FTIR, Raman, mass spectrometry) and classical histology will be used for this purpose. Your main task will be to further develop mass spectrometry imaging methods for model organisms and microplastics. This includes sample preparation, data acquisition parameters and data analysis approaches. By combining your results with complementary imaging techniques within project A03 and the CRC, molecular and histological effects in tissue can be directly linked to a single (identified) MP particle. This will provide new insights into the mechanisms of action of microplastics.

(You will be based in our laboratories on the main campus in Bayreuth.)

Your profile:

A university degree (MSc, diploma or equivalent degree) in chemistry, biology, ecotoxicology, analytical sciences or a similar discipline
A background in analytical methods, ideally mass spectrometry
Experience in high-resolution mass spectrometry is a plus, but not explicitly required
Programming skills (e.g. Python) are a benefit but not a requirement
Ability to work independently and in a structured manner
Commitment, high flexibility, team spirit
Very good knowledge of English (written and spoken)

We offer:

A constructive and friendly working atmosphere in an open-minded and interdisciplinary team
Excellent scientific infrastructure and strong collaborations within the CRC 1357 Microplastics and internationally
Doctorate in the structured doctoral program "Interdisciplinary Microplastics Science" with opportunities for further individual and interdisciplinary qualification
Flexible working hours, which allow the compatibility of family and career

The University of Bayreuth values the diversity of its employees as an enrichment and is expressly committed to the goal of equal opportunities for all genders. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants with children are very welcome. The University of Bayreuth is a member of the Best Practice Club "Familie in der Hochschule e.V.", and has successfully participated in the HRK audit "Internationalization of the University". Persons with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified.