PhD in co-translational protein structure prediction

About the LCSB

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB) is an interdisciplinary research centre of the University of Luxembourg.
We conduct fundamental and translational research in the field of Systems Biology and Biomedicine - in the lab, in the clinic and in silico. We focus on neurodegenerative processes and are especially interested in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and their contributing factors. The LCSB recruits talented scientists from various disciplines: computer scientists, mathematicians, biologists, chemists, engineers, physicists and clinicians from more than 50 countries currently work at the LCSB. We excel because we are truly interdisciplinary, and together we contribute to science and society.

Your role

The Gene Expression Dynamics junior group is looking for a highly motivated biochemist or RNA biologist with expertise in the analysis of nascent protein structures that are formed co-translationally. The candidate should have experience in state-of-the-art biochemical methods with a special focus on translation assays such as polysome and ribosome profiling, limited proteolysis, translationally competent extracts. In addition, the candidate should have a solid background in bioinformatics including analysis of large scale data (Ribo-seq, RNA-seq, mass spec) using statistical methods as well as structural machine learning algorithms such as AlphaFold. The candidate will perform and integrate kinetic ribosome profiling with structure prediction and biochemical structure probing experiments to identify proteins that are co-translationally folded.

For further information, please contact: Rico Schieweck -

Your profile

• The candidate will have an MSc or equivalent degree in biochemistry, biology, or related subject areas
• Previous experience in translation assays and analysis of large datasets is required
• Previous work and publications in the field of protein structure probing/predication or protein synthesis should be outlined in the CV
• Skills and knowledge in omics data analysis and structure prediction are highly desirable
• The candidate should have an interdisciplinary aptitude, strong organisational and interpersonal skills, and a keen interest in collaborative biomedical research
• Fluency in written and spoken English

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter, including a brief description of past research experience and future interests, as well as the earliest possible starting date
• Copies of degree certificates and transcripts
• Name and contact details of at least two referees

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Campus Belval
• Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
• Job Reference: UOL06855

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 40952 (full time).