The Faculty of Natural Sciences proudly announces that Jakob Franke now holds a full professorship for Biochemistry of Plant Specialised Metabolites. The appointment procedure ended in October 2024. Jakob Franke achieved outstanding research results and established himself as a valuable member of the teaching staff.
No doubts: excellent expert reports
The Leibniz-Tenure-Board had no second thoughts. National and international experts assessed Prof. Frankes scientific work with no doubts on his potential. Especially his research work in the field of natural product and plant research received special appreciation. One reviewer expressed her enthusiasm: "It is fortunate for the university that Mr Franke is now a permanent fixture in our midst."
Teamwork makes the dream work
The tenure-track procedure at Leibniz University enables outstanding young academics to obtain a permanent position after a fixed-term junior professorship or W2 professorship. Jakob Franke, who began his career as a junior research group leader in organic chemistry, increasingly turned to biology during his time at Leibniz University. This step proved to be extremely fruitful, as he initiated numerous interdisciplinary research projects. He has achieved significant contributions, particularly in the field of natural product and plant research. Two of his most recent papers, published in Science and BioRxiv, demonstrate the quality and influence of his research. Dr Franke highlighted the importance of the support he received from his colleagues at the Faculty of Natural Sciences: "Without the backing of the faculty and the numerous opportunities for collaboration, I wouldn't have been able to achieve these scientific successes." He particularly emphasised the openness and commitment of the biologists who integrated him into the team.
With his permanent professorship at Leibniz University, Prof Dr Franke wants to further expand his research and intends to intensify his role as a mediator between biology and chemistry.
