PhD student position – Advanced In Vitro Models for Systemic Sclerosis

European Commission; Deutschland; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 60.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

An exceptional opportunity for a PhD student at the University Hospital Düsseldorf, focusing on advanced in vitro models for systemic sclerosis research. Join a collaborative team at the forefront of fibrosis and immunology, developing skills across multiple scientific disciplines while contributing to impactful research projects.

Leistungen

Access to state-of-the-art research facilities

Mentorship by experienced scientists

Opportunities for academic and professional development

Full funding for the duration of the PhD program

Qualifikationen

• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture techniques.
• Proactive attitude toward learning new techniques.
• Motivation in translational research and project-driven work.

Aufgaben

• Conduct innovative laboratory experiments for fibrosis research.
• Establish in vitro co-culture systems with patient-derived fibroblasts.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team for project advancement.

Kenntnisse

Cellular and molecular biology

Immunology

Data analysis

Attention to detail

Ausbildung

Master's degree in Biology, Molecular Medicine, or related field

Jobbeschreibung

Organisation/Company Heinrich-Heine University, University Hospital Düsseldorf Research Field Biological sciences Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Country Germany Application Deadline 31 Jul 2025 - 23:00 (UTC) Type of Contract To be defined Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week To be defined Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The University Hospital Düsseldorf (UKD) is one of the largest and most advanced medical centers in North Rhine-Westphalia, treating over 300,000 patients annually. UKD is known for its excellence in patient care, research, and teaching, with strong interdisciplinary collaboration across 60 clinics and institutes.

The Department of Rheumatology at UKD is a leading institution in translational research on fibroinflammagtory diseases, including systemic sclerosis. Our team combines expertise in immunology, molecular biology, and clinical science, using innovative models such as cell co-cultures, organ-on-chip systems, and patient-derived tissues. We foster a dynamic, international, and collaborative research environment with close ties to industry.

The Department of Rheumatology and Hiller Research Center at Heinrich Heine University and University Hospital Düsseldorf invites applications for a:

PhD student position (m/f/d) – Advanced InVitro Models for Systemic Sclerosis Research

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our team for an interdisciplinary project under the supervision of Dr. Cuong Tran Manh at the Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, focusing on in vitro modeling of systemic sclerosis (SSc). The successful candidate will work at the forefront of fibrosis and immunology research, focusing on interactions between immune cells and fibroblasts in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and related fibrotic conditions. You will employ a combination of advanced in vitro and ex vivo models – including patient-derived SSc fibroblast and PBMC co-cultures and precision-cut skin slices – alongside cutting-edge technologies such as imaging mass cytometry and cyclic in-situ hybridization (for high-dimensional tissue phenotyping) as well as organ-on-chip and organoid model systems. Through these approaches, the project aims to uncover disease mechanisms and evaluate potential therapeutic interventions.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate doctoral candidate to contribute to high-impact research in a supportive, collaborative environment. You will develop a versatile skill set across immunology, cell biology, and bioengineering, while making meaningful contributions to a project that bridges basic science and clinical application.

Key responsibilities:

• Design and conduct innovative laboratory experiments to investigate mechanisms of tissue fibrosis and the interactions between immune cells and fibroblasts.
• Establish and maintain in vitro co-culture systems using patient-derived SSc fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
• Perform ex vivo studies using precision-cut skin slices from patient tissue, including treatment with candidate compounds and subsequent functional assays.
• Utilize imaging mass cytometry (IMC) and cyclic in-situ hybridization for high-dimensional phenotyping of cells and tissues.
• Develop and apply organ-on-chip models to simulate organ-level interactions between immune cells and fibroblasts and to study mechanisms of tissue fibrosis.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data using appropriate scientific and statistical methods.
• Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and clinicians to integrate findings and drive the project forward.
• Contribute to scientific publications and present research results at lab meetings, departmental seminars, and international conferences.
• Actively participate in training workshops and courses to continually advance your technical and professional skills.

Qualifications:

• Educational background: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field (e.g. Biology, Molecular Medicine, Immunology, Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering, or related discipline).
• Scientific skills: Foundation in cellular and molecular biology and/or immunology. Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture techniques is required; prior experience with primary cell co-cultures, tissue explants, or microfluidic/organ-on-chip systems is a plus.
• Technical aptitude: Experience with analyzing complex datasets (e.g. imaging data or sequencing results) is an advantage.
• Analytical & organizational skills: Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail in experimental design and data interpretation. Well-organized and capable of managing multiple experiments in parallel.
• Communication: Effective written and oral communication skills in English. Ability to document research clearly and to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Motivation: A strong interest in translational research and a proactive attitude toward learning new techniques across different fields. Enthusiasm for driving a project that bridges basic science and clinical application is essential.

What We Offer

• A vibrant, collaborative, and international research environment within the Department of Rheumatology and the University Hospital Düsseldorf community.
• Close supervision and mentorship by experienced scientists (with Dr. Cuong Tran Manh as direct supervisor) and opportunities to learn from clinical experts in rheumatology and immunology.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies, including imaging mass cytometry, advanced microscopy, flow cytometry, and organ-on-chip platforms, enabling you to perform cutting-edge experiments.
• An interdisciplinary and translational project at the intersection of immunology, fibrosis biology, and bioengineering.
• Opportunities for academic and professional development, including support for attending conferences, workshops, and specialized training courses to broaden your skill set.
• Full funding for the duration of the PhD program (three years), provided through the collaborative project. Enrollment as a doctoral candidate at Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf and participation in its graduate programs will be facilitated.
• Potential for collaboration with other departments and research groups (e.g. Dermatology, Pulmonology, Microbiology), expanding your professional network and interdisciplinary experience.

Employment conditions

• Contract term: The employment is initially limited for a period of two years but can be extended for an additional third year. In accordance with §2 Abs. 2 of the Act of Academic Fixed-Term Contract (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz – WissZeitVG), the position is limited to the realization of an intramuraly funded project.
• Salary: Remuneration is based on the German public service pay scale TV-L E13 (65%)
• Employment will be through the University Hospital Düsseldorf, with access to the benefits and services available to university employees.
• Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf aims to increase the proportion of women. Applications from women with equal suitability, qualifications and professional performance will therefore be given preferential consideration, unless reasons relating to the person of a competitor outweigh this. The application of suitable severely disabled persons and persons with equivalent disabilities according to SGB IX is welcome.

Application process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents in English as a single PDF file via email:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) including your educational background, research experience, skills, and any publications.
• A motivation letter (cover letter) explaining your interest in this position, how your background prepares you for the project, and your career goals.
• Academic transcripts and certificates for your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
• Brief summary of research experience and practical lab skills.
• Contact information for two references (academic or professional mentors) who can be contacted to provide a recommendation.

Contact Information

For further information regarding the position or research project, please contact:

The University Hospital Düsseldorf is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified candidates.