Postdoctoral Position in Neuroimmunology and EBV Infection (m/f/d)

The Department of Dermatology of the Heidelberg University Hospital is seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Fellow to join our research team in the field of neuroimmunology and Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection. This position will focus on the role of the EBI2 receptor in these processes. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Florian Kurschus, a renowned expert in the field.

Topic

Multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS), affects 2.8 million people worldwide. As of now, there is no cure for this disease and the triggering factors remain unknown. Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been shown to be associated with the development of the disease. We aim to understand how EBV causes MS. In this project, we want to investigate the role of epitope spreading, that is the expansion of an immune response to new epitopes or antigens beyond the original target, and the EBI2 receptor, a key immune system modulator, in establishing and propagating autoimmunity using Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV)-induced demyelinating model and an actively induced EAE model.

Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research in neuroimmunology and TMEV infection.
• Investigate the role of EBI2 in the immune response and in epitope spreading in neuroinflammation.
• Utilize a range of molecular, cellular, and immunological techniques.
• Perform experiments in a highly autonomous manner.
• Collaborate with international research teams and contribute to publications in high-impact journals.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in immunology, virology, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Strong background in neuroimmunology and/or virus infection research.
• Experience with molecular and cellular techniques.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Proven track record of scientific publications (also submission in preparation).

About us

Interested?

Please send your application to Dr. Florian Kurschus at the Dermatology Clinic Heidelberg via e-mail.

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

• A cover letter detailing their research interests and career goals.
• A curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications.
• Contact information for three professional references.

We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to our team at the Dermatology Clinic Heidelberg.