PhD Student – Function and Regulation of Type 6 Secretion System

The project

The bacterial Type 6 secretion system (T6SS) is one of the largest dynamic assemblies in Gram-negative bacteria. It shares evolutionary origins with contractile phage tails and other extracellular contractile protein translocation nanomachines. Importantly, the unique mode of action of T6SS allows bacteria to deliver folded proteins across membranes of neighboring bacterial or eukaryotic cells (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41579-025-01256-w). Subcellular localization of T6SS assembly and timing of its firing is tightly regulated in various bacteria:

• Spatial positioning: Live-cell super-resolution imaging showed that Acinetobacter position their T6SS specifically at contact sites with neighboring bacteria (https://doi.org/10.15252/embj.2021108595).
• Tit-for-tat response: Atomic force microscopy and live-cell imaging demonstrated that T6SS assembly in Pseudomonas responds to attacks by sensing membrane damage (https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adr1713).
• Host interaction: During infection, T6SS in Burkholderia assembles when bacteria are trapped in membrane protrusions, enabling cell-to-cell spread (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2024.03.013).

Despite these breakthroughs, we still lack a fundamental mechanistic understanding of how precise timing and spatial localization are achieved, and the specific signals that trigger T6SS assembly remain unknown.

Learn more about our recent research: Basler Lab Group Overview and Google Scholar

Your profile

We are looking for a curious, talented, and highly motivated PhD student to join our team!

• Required Qualifications: An MSc degree with a research thesis in molecular microbiology, protein biochemistry, protein-protein interactions, electron microscopy, bacterial signaling, or a related discipline.
• Desirable Skills: Prior hands-on experience with live-cell imaging is an advantage.

We offer you

• Environment: A fully funded PhD position in a highly interactive, multidisciplinary, and international research group combining expertise in molecular microbiology, biochemistry, imaging, and infection biology.
• Development: Structured PhD program with extensive opportunities for training, networking, and scientific exchange.
• Facilities: Outstanding support from specialized Biozentrum core facilities (e.g. Imaging, Biophysics, Electron Microscopy) staffed by expert scientists.
• Location: Basel is a vibrant, highly international city located where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet. It offers an exceptional standard of living, rich cultural activities, and proximity to major biomedical hubs.