Postdoc (all genders) for Immunology

At the Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology (HCTI) within the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), we are actively seeking highly motivated postdoctoral fellows with a robust background in experimental immunology in the laboratory of Nicola Gagliani.

Our research focus centers on investigating the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms of T cell biology. Specifically, we explore how T cells adapt to environmental changes and ultimately contribute to either mediating physiological responses to pathogens or engaging in pathological tissue-damaging processes (Vesely et al., Cell (2019), Zhao Yu et al., Science Immunology (2021), Tintelnot J. et al., Nature (2023), Siracusa F. et al., Nature Imm. (2023), and Liebold I. et al Science (2024)).

In the years ahead, we aim to delve deeply into the complex interactions between environmental factors and the immune system, with a particular focus on virus-specific lung resident T cells. We would like to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that distinguish the development, function, and cell-cell interactions of protective and pathological virus-specific CD4 T cells. Virus-specific CD4 T cells could be ideal targets for preventing immune pathology following viral infections while formulating effective vaccination strategies. This approach is not only relevant for known respiratory viral pathogens but also for emerging viruses that pose the risk of future pandemics, paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies.

The laboratory of Nicola Gagliani is funded by DFG and ERC, providing a unique opportunity for fellows to access a combination of state-of-the-art techniques and multiomics data to answer key biological questions.

You can look forward to:

• International and multidisciplinary environment at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, a leading institution in Europe (Germany)
• Access to the institution's soft skills program, including training in presenting skills and scientific writing, as well as career-oriented courses
• Mentoring focused on building the best possible career within and outside academia
• Weekly scientific exchange through lab meetings and journal clubs
• Opportunity to collaborate with research groups at the University of Yale (USA) and the Karolinska Institute (Sweden)

This position is temporary for 4 years due to project-related reasons.

• Completed academic studies in biology, biochemistry, human biology, medicine or related subjects
• Candidates applying for these positions should hold a PhD or MD, or an equivalent degree
• We are looking for candidates who have expertise and commitment to experimental immunology

• Regular pay according to TVöD/VKA; attractive company pension plan and various employee discounts
• 30 days of vacation; possibility of special leave
• Central location: Our clinic is centrally located at the beautiful Eppendorfer Park
• Sustainable travel: subsidies for the "Deutschlandticket" and Dr. Bike bicycle service; option to lease a service bike
• Crisis-proof workplace, meaningful activity, appreciative interaction and open exchange of knowledge within the team; structured induction training
• Opportunity to actively shape and develop the working environment within the framework of our employee program (UKE INside).
• Family-friendly working environment: cooperation on childcare, free vacation care, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
• Excellent health, prevention and sports offers
• Healthy and varied lunch break: In addition to our canteen, there is a rich selection of culinary offerings just a few steps away, for example the "Health Kitchen" cafés and bistros, as well as other snack bars, bakers, a supermarket, etc.

We live diversity and value variety

We offer a work environment providing equal opportunities regardless of age, gender, sexual identity, disability, ethnic and social 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.