Doctoral (PhD) student position (all genders) in viral immunology

As part of the newly DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1648 “Emerging Viruses: Pathogenesis, Structure, Immunity” the labs of Julian Schulze zur Wiesch (Infectious Diseases Unit, I. Department of Medicine, UKE) and Mascha Binder (Medical Oncology and Department of Biomedicine, University and University Hospital Basel) are seeking one highly motivated PhD student to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive protective or damaging adaptive immune responses in emerging viral infections.

Main tasks:

The initial naïve immune responses to novel viral pathogens can be very effective in aiding pathogen clearance, but they might also lead to hyperinflammation or autoimmune-like reactions as observed for SARS-CoV-2 and other infections. The focus of this research project is to identify cellular and molecular patterns that drive these beneficial or detrimental outcomes and that are shared between different infections. By using state-of-the-art techniques like multiparameter flow cytometry, ex vivo tetramer staining, immune repertoire sequencing, scRNA/VDJ- and CITE-seq, we will dissect the cellular phenotypes and antigen receptor landscapes of (antigen-specific) B and T cells in well-defined infection and vaccination cohorts for certain viral infections (but not limited to): e.g. SARS-CoV-2, Monkeypox (Mpox), or Lassa virus. This includes in-depth examination of immunocompromised and re-infected vaccinated patients to gain insights into recurrent immune dynamics. A key aspect of this project is to use machine learning tools to transform the obtained data into knowledge that contributes to pandemic preparedness.

Our groups work in inspiring and interactive research environments at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and the Department of Biomedicine in Basel and have ongoing collaborative projects with national and international colleagues. Primary location will be Hamburg, but regular stays in Basel are possible. Candidates will be expected to take the lead role in the design, conduction and analyses of their projects, contribute to publications, and present their projects and data at lab meetings, as well as international meetings. We are looking for someone who is excited to discover and answer questions related to viral immunology, and who demonstrates critical thinking, scientific rigor, and attention to detail.

The position is temporary for three years in accordance with the WissZeitVG and to be filled with 65 % of the regular weekly working hours.

• An excellent master’s degree or equivalent in biology, physics, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular life sciences, infection biology or a related subject
• Sound cell and molecular biological skills and knowledge
• Interest in clinical Immunology and virology , Infectious diseases and clinical medicine
• Experience with flow cytometry and/or next-generation sequencing methods are beneficial; Experience with R or python are not required but a plus
• Strong motivation to conduct independent experiments, including planning, analysis and interpretation
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work independently
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
• Commitment to teamwork and collaboration
• Some German langue skills are a plus
• Interest in travelling – nationally and internationally to work with collaborators of both work groups

Applications should include letter of motivation, a CV including two references, certificates (University entrance, qualification, BSc, and Msc), abstract of MSc thesis (1 page) including a summary of experimental skills and a list of publications (if applicable). 

• Attractive pay according to TVöD/VKA
• Crisis-proof workplace, meaningful work, respectful cooperation
• Structured induction and open exchange of knowledge within the team
• Extensive training and further education programs at our UKE Academy for Education and Careers
• Opportunities to help shape our “UKE INside” personnel policy in cross-professional and cross-hierarchical projects
• Sustainable travel: subsidies for the Deutschlandticket as a job ticket and Dr. Bike bicycle service; option to lease a company bike
• Family-friendly working environment: cooperation on childcare, free vacation childcare, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
• Excellent health, prevention and sports programs
• Our staff restaurant offers a wide range of culinary options; further options are available in the “Health Kitchen” cafés and bistros and in a supermarket directly on the premises

We live diversity and value variety

We offer a work environment providing equal opportunities regardless of age, gender, sexual identity, disability, origin or religion. This is confirmed by our accession to the Charter of Diversity. We explicitly aim to increase the proportion of women in management positions, especially among scientific personnel in research and teaching. Women with equal qualifications will be given priority. The same applies in the case of under-representation of one gender in the advertised area. Persons with severe disability with equal aptitude, competence and professional performance will be given priority. 

> Learn more about "Diversity at UKE" here.