PhD Positions (all genders) in Lymphatic Vascular Biology

The Mural and Endothelial Cell Biology Group (AG Orlich) investigates the molecular mechanisms that govern cardiovascular development and disease. Our research combines advanced in vitro approaches with in vivo mouse models, with a strong emphasis on state-of-the-art imaging technologies. Recent work from our group has identified the Serum Response Factor (SRF) signaling pathway as a key regulator of pericyte migration and vascular smooth muscle cell contractility. We are now expanding this research to explore the role of SRF signaling in the lymphatic vasculature, with a focus on lymphatic development, homeostasis, and disease.

To support this effort, we are seeking two highly motivated PhD candidates to join our team.

Your Tasks:

• Planning and conducting cell biological and animal experiments
• Performing live in vivo imaging, including intravital single-photon and multiphoton microscopy
• Tissue preparation and immunofluorescence staining for confocal microscopy
• Experimental work including FACS analysis, immunoblotting, ELISA, protein isolation, cell culture, and work with mouse models
• Single cell RNAseq method
• Analysis, documentation, and interpretation of experimental data
• Presentation of research results at internal group meetings and international scientific conferences
• Active contribution to a collaborative research environment through critical thinking and analytical discussion

These PhD positions (65%) a temporary for a period of 36 months with flexible start date, ideally no later than June 2026.

• Completed Master’s degree in biology, pharmacy, chemistry, biochemistry, or a comparable natural science discipline
• High motivation, curiosity, and enthusiasm for experimental biomedical research
• Interest in cardiovascular and/or lymphatic biology
• Previous laboratory experience; prior knowledge of the cardiovascular system and/or experience with mouse models is an advantage but not required
• Good command of English (written and spoken)
• Experience with MS Office and common scientific software (e. g. GraphPad Prism, ImageJ); willingness to learn new analytical tools
• Ability to work both independently and as part of an international, interdisciplinary team
• Strong organizational skills, reliability, flexibility, and a high level of commitment

We look forward to receiving your complete application, including:

• A cover letter describing your motivation and research interests
• Curriculum vitae
• Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
• One reference letter (if available), e.g. from the supervisor of your Master’s thesis

• Attractive compensation according to TVöD/VKA
• Secure employment with meaningful work and respectful collaboration
• Comprehensive onboarding and open knowledge exchange within the team
• Extensive training and further education programs at our UKE Academy for Education and Careers
• Opportunities to contribute to our “UKE INside” personnel policy through cross-professional and cross-hierarchical projects
• Sustainable travel: subsidies for the Deutschlandticket as a job ticket, and Dr. Bike bicycle service
• Family-friendly working environment: cooperation on childcare, free vacation childcare, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
• Excellent health, wellness, and sports programs
• A wide range of dining options in our staff restaurant, with additional choices available at the “Health Kitchen” cafés, bistros, and an on-site supermarket

We live diversity and value variety

We offer a work environment that provides 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 disabilities with equal aptitude, competence, and professional performance will be given priority.

> Learn more about "Diversity at UKE" here.