2 Positions for Technical Assistants (f/m/x)

Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
2 Positions for Technical Assistants (f/m/x)
AG Thomma - Microbiology | Institute for Plant Sciences

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.

The Thomma Laboratory (https://ag-thomma.botanik.uni-koeln.de) aims to gain fundamental knowledge to understand how fungal plant pathogens cause disease on their hosts. We study so-called effectors of fungal plant pathogens to understand how these molecules contribute to disease development. Our research mostly focuses on soilborne vascular wilt fungus Verticillium dahliae that can infect numerous plant species, including crops.

For the current positions we seek highly motivated applicants (f/m/x) who will work on the heterologous production of effector proteins in E. coli and in yeast and will perform a wide range of biochemical assays with these proteins, including antimicrobial activity assays.

YOUR TASKS

• Independent performance of molecular biological and biochemical work
• Protein production and purification based on bacterial or yeast expression systems in fermenter or batch cultures
• Cultivation and care of microbial (fungal, bacterial) cultures and genetic transformation
• Laboratory organisational tasks (e.g. ordering, managing laboratory equipment)

YOUR PROFILE

• Degree as a Biological-technical assistant (f/m/x)
• Very good English proficiency
• Practical experience in the fields of microbiology, molecular biology and biochemistry methods
• Experience with protein expression is highly desired
• Interest in scientific questions in microbiology and plant-microbe interactions
• High degree of motivation, creativity and responsibility, independent and meticulous work style, team player

WE OFFER

• The opportunity to work in an interactive and international research group with state-of-the-art facilities
• 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

The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (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 positions are available from 01.08.2025 on a full-time basis (39,83 hours per week). The positions are to be filled for a fixed term until 30.09.2028. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications, the salary will be based on remuneration group 9b 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 TUV2505-11. The application deadline is 26.06.2025.

For further inquiries, please contact Professor Dr Bart Thomma (bthomma@uni-koeln.de) and take a look at our FAQs.