PhD Position (all genders) - CRC 1700

Main tasks

Associated with the Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 1700 "Immune Regulation in the Liver: From Homeostasis to Disease", we offer a PhD position. CRC 1700 aims to advance our understanding of the mechanisms governing immune regulation in the liver.

The research project addresses a critical knowledge gap in the pathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a severe immune-mediated liver disease with poorly understood disease mechanisms and a lack of effective causal therapies. While previous studies have predominantly focused on end-stage human disease or relied on inadequate animal models, this project aims to systematically dissect the functional role of pathogenic T-cell populations using a novel translational mouse model.

A key methodological innovation of the project is the targeted ablation of antigen recognition in antigen-experienced T cells through inducible T-cell receptor (TCR) inactivation using a recently developed mouse model. This experimental system enables the functional distinction between antigen-specific and antigen-independent T-cell activity in the liver and is broadly applicable to other TCR-/antigen-specific models as well as studies of infection, inflammation, tumor biology, and autoimmunity. The methodological portfolio includes a wide range of state-of-the-art techniques, including molecular biology, flow cytometry, primary murine cell culture, mouse models of autoimmune liver disease, and viral infection models.

Your tasks:

• Phenotypic characterization of murine immune cells using flow cytometry
• Virus culture and viral titration in cell culture systems
• In vitro functional T-cell assays
• Conducting animal experiments using mouse models of autoimmune liver disease
• Generation and analysis of immunofluorescence microscopy data
• Analysis, interpretation, and presentation of results at internal, national, and international scientific meetings
• Preparation of scientific manuscripts for publication

This position is to be filled with 65 % of the regular weekly working hours and temporary for 3 years in accordance with the WissZeitVG.

Your Profile

• A completed scientific university degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related life science discipline
• Previous training and experience in immunology and microbiology are desirable
• Prior experience with animal experimentation is advantageous
• A high level of motivation, scientific curiosity, and enthusiasm for collaborative research

Applications should include a c.v., academic certificates, references, and a short personal statement outlining your suitability and motivation for the study, and your research experience to date.

Immunity status

Please note that employment is contingent upon proof of immunization or immunity against the measles virus, in accordance with applicable legal and medical requirements. Documentation (e.g., vaccination certificate) must be provided before employment begins.

Our Offer

• Fair and transparent compensation in accordance with our collective bargaining agreement ( TVöD/VKA ) (€ 63,600 – € 91,100), taking into account qualifications and professional experience. The salary range applies to a full-time position of 38.5 hours per week. The amounts listed are guidelines and do not constitute a salary guarantee.
• Targeted and individualized professional development at both the technical and project levels is provided, offering long-term prospects in a meaningful work environment
• Comprehensive continuing education and training programs at our UKE Academy for Education and Career
• Opportunities to help shape our “UKE INside” personnel policy through cross-functional and cross-hierarchical projects
• Sustainable commuting: Subsidies for the Deutschlandticket as a job ticket and Dr. Bike bicycle service
• Excellent health, prevention, and sports programs
• Family-friendly work environment: Partnerships for childcare, free vacation care, counseling for employees with family members requiring care
• A secure job, meaningful work, and a supportive team environment
• Structured onboarding and open knowledge sharing within the team
• Our employee restaurant offers a wide variety of culinary options; additional options are available at the “Health Kitchen” cafés and bistros and at a supermarket located directly on the premises