Doctoral Researcher / PhD Candidate

Scope of duties

The Department of Dermatology and Allergology (Director : Prof. Michael Flaig) is part of the newly established Transregional Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 425 “Desmosomal Dysfunction in Epithelial Barriers” (DEFINE). The mission of this multidisciplinary research consortium is to uncover cellular mechanisms underlying desmosomal dysfunction. CRC 425 combines cutting-edge technologies and translational approaches using patient-derived samples.

Subproject B03 is led by Prof. Lauffer in Munich and Prof. Yazdi in Aachen. Together, we aim to elucidate mechanisms of desmosomal detachment in various skin diseases, with a particular focus on the interplay between pro-inflammatory cytokines, cell death, and desmosomal function. To achieve this, we will use primary human cells (keratinocytes and T cells), three-dimensional skin models, and patient-derived skin biopsies in combination with state-of-the-art imaging and omics technologies.

Your tasks include :

• Conducting research and development activities within this DFG-funded CRC subproject, including cell culture, generation of three-dimensional skin models, imaging, RNA sequencing, and functional assays keratinocyte detachment assays, viability assays)
• Communicating and coordinating experimental progress within the CRC as well as with national and international collaboration partners
• Presenting scientific findings within the CRC and at national and international conferences and workshops

Our requirements

MSc degree or equivalent in immunology, (cell) biology, biochemistry, or a related field

Our offer

We offer a supportive working atmosphere in an interdisciplinary working group consisting of biologists and dermatological clinician scientists.

All of the methods mentioned are well established in the working group, and great importance is attached to providing good supervision and training.

Thanks to the established models of inflammatory skin diseases, there is no need to use animal models in this project, making this position particularly interesting for applicants who prefer to work primarily with human samples.

Within the research network, there is strong support for doctoral students through the integrated Research Training Group.

There is close collaboration with other laboratories that are part of the network, with the opportunity for laboratory visits to learn new methods and improve networking.

The position is offered for a period of 3 years and 9 months, provided that no previous qualification periods need to be taken into account. The starting date is April 1, 2026. The position is part-time (65% of regular working hours).