Life Sciences PhD Vacancy at University of Basel, Switzerland | Fully Funded T6SS Research
How do bacteria control when and where to deploy molecular machinery against neighboring cells? This Life Sciences PhD vacancy at the University of Basel, Switzerland, investigates the assembly and function of the Type 6 secretion system (T6SS). The fully funded position in Prof. Marek Basler’s group combines molecular microbiology, protein biochemistry, and bacterial cell biology.
- Position: PhD Student – Function and Regulation of Type 6 Secretion System
- Location: Basel, Switzerland
- Research Group: Prof. Marek Basler
- Funding: Fully funded
About The Institute
The Biozentrum at the University of Basel brings together an international research community investigating fundamental questions in biology and medicine. It supports doctoral researchers through a structured PhD program and specialist facilities in areas including imaging, biophysics, and electron microscopy.
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy Description
The project focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms controlling T6SS assembly and function. This dynamic protein machinery enables Gram-negative bacteria to deliver folded proteins across the membranes of neighboring bacterial or eukaryotic cells.
Although previous research has revealed how T6SS activity relates to bacterial contact, membrane damage, and infection, important questions remain. The PhD project will investigate the mechanisms behind precise assembly timing, spatial positioning, and the signals that trigger the system.
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy – Key Research Areas
- Molecular mechanisms regulating T6SS assembly and function.
- Spatial positioning of the secretion machinery within bacterial cells.
- Timing and signals involved in T6SS activation.
- Connections between bacterial signaling, protein interactions, and cell behavior.
Educational Requirements and Eligibility
Applicants must hold an MSc degree with a research thesis in one of the following areas:
- Molecular Microbiology
- Protein Biochemistry
- Protein–Protein Interactions
- Electron Microscopy
- Bacterial Signaling
- A related discipline
Skills and Qualifications For Life Sciences PhD Vacancy
- Curiosity and strong motivation for doctoral research.
- Research interests aligned with molecular microbiology, protein biochemistry, or bacterial cell biology.
Desirable Experience: Previous hands-on experience with live-cell imaging is an advantage.
Funding and Research Development
The position is fully funded, with access to structured doctoral training, scientific exchange, and networking opportunities. Researchers receive support from expert staff in Biozentrum’s specialist core facilities; the salary amount and funding duration are not specified in the supplied posting.
Application Documents
Submit the following through the online application form:
- A brief statement describing your research experience and specific motivation for the position.
- A comprehensive CV.
- Contact information for at least two academic references.
Life Sciences PhD Vacancy – Application Details
- Start Date: Immediately or by mutual agreement.
- Application Review: The posting states that review starts in September and continues until the position is filled; no year or fixed deadline is provided.
- Application Method: Applications are accepted exclusively through the online form.
- Informal Enquiries: [email protected].
- Research Group: Basler Lab Overview.
Interested in the molecular systems that shape bacterial interactions? This Life Sciences PhD vacancy at the University of Basel offers the opportunity to investigate T6SS regulation within a multidisciplinary research team. If your master’s research matches the listed fields, prepare your application and explain your specific interest in the project.
Questions and comments