PhD (m/w/d)

Crops are increasingly affected by microbial diseases, highlighting the need for durable and broad plant defence

strategies. Our research group investigates plant signalling pathways that contribute to fungal entry into host

epidermal cells and are actively manipulated by the pathogen to promote infection. Our primary goal is to

understand the molecular mechanisms allowing fungal entry, which may ultimately inform the identification of

potential targets for resistance breeding in the future. Our group focuses on the role of RAC/ROP GTPase-mediated signalling at the plant-fungus interface and its

contribution to cellular changes that facilitate the establishment of the powdery mildew Blumeria hordei in the

cereal crop barley. Particularly in this project, we are interested in better understanding the molecular functions

of RIC proteins, which have been identified as downstream interactors of barley RAC/ROP GTPases. In

Arabidopsis, RICs are known to influence the actin cytoskeleton, raising the question of whether they also

contribute to cytoskeletal rearrangements required for successful fungal penetration in barley. To address these

questions, we employ an integrative approach that combines phenotypic and genotypic analysis of newly

generated overexpression and CRISPR-Cas9 knockout lines with infection assays, microscopy, proteomics,

and bioinformatics, aiming to further elucidate the molecular changes driven by ROP signaling contributing to

barley’s susceptibility to powdery mildew. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a strong interest in hands-on research in molecular plant biology,

genetics, and microscopy. Prior knowledge and practical experience with CRISPR-Cas9 in plants and/or

molecular biology in plant-pathogen interactions are desirable. Proficiency in English, both written and spoken,

is essential. A very good Master’s degree in Biology or a closely related discipline is required. The project will be carried out in the group of Prof. Dr. Ralph Hückelhoven under co-supervision by Dr. Sabine

Brumm at the TUM campus in Freising-Weihenstephan, close to Munich. The chair hosts several research

groups studying molecular biology of plant immunity and plant-plant pathogen evolution. In addition, we have

several collaborations both national and international and direct access to state of the art technology for

microscopy, proteomics, bioinformatics, all kinds of molecular biology and cell biology techniques and high

quality plant growth rooms and infection chambers.

The Technical University of Munich is an equal opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications

from qualified women and individuals with disabilities. The salary is according to German/Bavarian income level

TV-L E13 (65%). First contract is going to be restricted to two years time. Please send your comprehensive

application including a letter of motivation (1 page), your CV, all relevant certificates, list of publications, and

names of 2 potential referees as a single pdf file via apply.job.28122920@hokifyjob.com Applications will be

reviewed regularly from July 10th 2025 on but accepted until a suitable candidate is found. Anyhow, applications that arrive after August 31st likely cannot be considered.