PhD Student (gn •) Immunology

PhD Student (gn

• ) Immunology

Fixed-term of 3 years | Part-time with 65% (25 hours / week) | Salary according to TV-L, salary group 13 | Institute for Experimental Pathology, based at the Center for Inflammation Research at the University of Münster | Job ID : 11273

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.

To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific support at the Institute for Experimental Pathology - ideally with you on board!

THE PROJECT :

In a project funded by the IZKF (Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research Münster), the newly established research group of Dr. Mariano Malamud is investigating the role of inhibitory receptors in the regulation of chronic inflammatory conditions. Inhibitory receptors are germline-encoded innate receptors that play a central role in maintaining immune homeostasis. Their loss or mutation is often associated with unchecked inflammation and destructive autoimmunity. This PhD project will focus on unraveling the specific role of a newly described inhibitory receptor that regulates cellular responses (Malamud et al., Nature 2024) in obesity and its associated metabolic disorders, with particular emphasis on atherosclerosis. The project builds on and complements the institute’s expertise, led by Prof. Oliver Soehnlein, in understanding how neutrophils drive chronic sterile inflammation (Soehnlein et al., Nat Rev Immunol, 2017; Silvestre-Roig et al., Nature, 2019; Soehnlein & Libby, Nat Rev Drug Discov, 2021). Our institute offers a highly interdisciplinary and international environment and uses state-of-the-art techniques spanning a broad range from immunology, cell and molecular biology, (spatial) single cell omics and bioinformatics.

Your Tasks

Design and conduct experiments utilizing state-of-the-art approaches such as :

Animal models of metabolic diseases and atherosclerosis

Flow cytometric analysis of immune cell populations from murine tissues using full spectrum flow cytometry

Immunohistological staining and imaging of tissue sections using multiplexed immunohistochemistry

Biochemical assays for cytokines and other inflammatory mediators

Cell culture experiments (primary cells and cell lines)

Collaborate closely with colleagues across disciplines to integrate findings into a comprehensive model of atherosclerosis pathophysiology

Analyze data, interpret results, and present conclusions through high-quality publications, presentations, and reports

Contribute to manuscript preparation

Participate actively in departmental seminars, workshops, and conferences

What we expect :

MSc degree in Biological Sciences

Strong background in immunology

Hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas :

Flow cytometry-based phenotyping and sorting

Immunofluorescence microscopy and histopathological evaluation

Culture of cell lines and human or murine primary cells

Good communication skills in English; proficiency in German desirable but not required

Willingness to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative projects

Willingness to participate in ongoing training programs to enhance expertise and stay up to date with latest methodologies

What we offer :

Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, pension plan, and family support services

Access to world-class infrastructure, equipment, and resources

Opportunities for professional growth, networking, and international collaboration

Supportive environment fostering creativity , innovation, and interdisciplinary exchange

For inquiries please contact : Mariano Malamud, Mariano.MalamudGuillan@ukmuenster.de

Apply now via our career portal until 29.10.2025 including :

Cover letter highlighting relevant experience, interests, and career goals (max. 2 pages)

Curriculum vitae with publication list and academic record

Contact details for two referees familiar with your scientific achievements

BENEFITS

Exciting Projects

Professional Development and Training

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Part of Research Innovation

Additional Benefits

Exciting Projects

Professional Development and Training

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Part of Research Innovation

Additional Benefits

The University Hospital of Münster is one of the leading hospitals in Germany. Such a position cannot be achieved by size and medical successes alone. The individual commitment counts above all. We need your commitment so that even with little things we can achieve great things for our patients. There are many possibilities open for you so that you may develop with them.

Universitätsklinikum Münster

Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude D5

48149 Münster

www.ukm.de