Postdoctoral Researcher in Microbial Bioactive Compounds

Postdoctoral Researcher Position (f/m/d, E13 TV-L, 100%)

Faculty of Science, Department of Microbial Bioactive Compounds

Bewerbungsfrist : 31.08.2026

Dr. Chambers C. Hughes, Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine, Department of Microbial Bioactive Compounds at the University of Tübingen, distinguished as excellent by the Federal Government of Germany, is inviting applications for a

3-year Postdoctoral Researcher Position (f/m/d, E13 TV-L, 100%)

starting as soon as possible.

The position

The position is part of the BMBF-funded project KERN (“KI-gestützte Erschließung ribosomaler Naturstoffe: Ein Hochdurchsatzansatz zur Entdeckung antimikrobieller Wirkstoffe”), a multidisciplinary effort to discover and characterize new antibacterial ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) using artificial intelligence. The successful candidate will join the Hughes Lab and become part of a vibrant research environment in charming Tübingen. Our group has extensive expertise in natural products chemistry and synthetic organic chemistry, and the project is strongly supported by the Cluster of Excellence Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections.

Your Responsibilities

• detect and prioritize new RiPPs produced in engineered bacterial hosts using HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS
• purify RiPP candidates and elucidate their structures using NMR spectroscopy

Your Profile

• a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a related discipline
• a competitive track record of scientific publications in natural products chemistry
• a keen interest in interdisciplinary teamwork
• a high level of motivation, independence, and reliability
• proficiency in English

Our Offer

• the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at a highly renowned university
• a collegial and supportive working atmosphere
• remuneration in accordance with the TV-L collective agreement for public-sector employees of the German federal states, including all corresponding benefits
• opportunities for international collaboration
• local and global networking opportunities, including conferences, workshops, summer schools, and related events
• 30 days of paid vacation per year
• career mentoring and professional development support
• visa and onboarding assistance, where applicable

We are committed to diversity in science and particularly welcome applications from women, non-binary researchers, and members of underrepresented groups across cultures, genders, ethnicities, and lifestyles. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in cases of equal qualification and experience.

How to apply

Please email your application, including a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, certificates, and contact details for two academic references, with the subject line “KERN postdoc” to Dr. Chambers C. Hughes: chambers.hughesspam prevention@uni-tuebingen.de. 

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present their previous research in a talk of up to 30 minutes to the selection committee and colleagues.

Application deadline: 31st August 2026