PhD Student (m/f/d)

Gesellschaft für Virologie e.V.; Heidelberg; Vor Ort; EUR 30.000 - 40.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research institution in Heidelberg is seeking a PhD Student to investigate the molecular determinants of HIV-specific elite cytotoxic T cells. The successful candidate will engage in advanced research focused on immunology and virology, contributing to innovative immune-based therapies. Candidates should possess a master's degree in a relevant field and have a strong interest in host-pathogen interactions. This position offers opportunities for career development in a supportive environment.

Leistungen

Career development opportunities

Access to cutting-edge research facilities

Qualifikationen

• Master's degree or equivalent in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Virology, Biomedicine, or relevant fields.
• Strong interest in immunology and host-pathogen interactions.
• Experience working in a high containment laboratory (BSL-3) is required.

Aufgaben

• Investigate Molecular Determinants of HIV-Specific Elite Cytotoxic T Cells.
• Develop and apply assays for molecular and functional analysis.
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary international research network.

Kenntnisse

Molecular Biology

Immunology

Virology

Team-oriented

Ausbildung

Master’s degree in a relevant discipline

Tools

Advanced microfluidics

Imaging methods

Jobbeschreibung

The laboratory of Dr. Frauke Mücksch, Center for Infectious Diseases (CIID), Virology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany recruits a

PhD Student (m/f/d) (65% TV-L E13)

to investigate Molecular Determinants of HIV-Specific Elite Cytotoxic T Cells

The position is part of the SynthImmune Cluster of Excellence, which brings together leading groups in virology, cancer, immunology, and bioengineering to understand and harness the principles of immune control to develop a new class of engineered and synthetic therapeutics based on bottom‑up Synthetic Immunology.

This project focuses on understanding why a rare subset of people living with HIV are able to naturally suppress viral replication through exceptionally effective immune responses. Specifically, the PhD candidate will study the molecular and functional characteristics of elite antiviral cytotoxic T cells, aiming to determine what distinguishes them from typical immune responses. By developing and applying advanced microfluidics‑ and imaging‑based assays, combined with cellular and transcriptomics approaches, the project will define molecular and functional determinants underlying superior antiviral activity. Identified factors will be validated through gain‑ and loss‑of‑function approaches, providing the basis for the design of innovative immune‑based therapies for HIV infection.

We offer an interesting and challenging research topic with biomedical relevance in a young, open‑minded, and highly motivated research group. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary international research network within the CIID at Heidelberg University and collaborate closely with the group of Prof. Oliver Fackler (CIID) as well as partners in immunology and bioengineering within the SynthImmune consortium. The work will be supported by cutting‑edge facilities for imaging, cell biology, and molecular analysis, as well as dedicated support data analysis. PhD students have access to career development opportunities and a wide range of activities offered through HBIGS International Graduate School and the University. Our lab strives to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive work environment.

We are looking forward to meeting highly motivated, interactive, and team‑oriented candidates with passion for science who want to develop into independent scientists throughout their PhD. Candidates should hold a master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (Molecular Biology, Immunology, Virology, Biomedicine, or related fields). Applicants should have a strong interest in immunology and host‑pathogen interactions. The project involves working in a high containment laboratory (BSL‑3). A good background in molecular and cell biological methods is required. Prior experience with imaging is beneficial.

The position is open from January 2026. Please apply through the SynthImmune Application Platform at https://application.synthimmune.de.
For questions, please contact [e-mail].