PhD Position (all genders) - CRC 1700

PhD Position (all genders) - CRC 1700

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Job-ID: J000006618

Contract Type: Temporary

Employment Type: Part time

Closing Date: 27.07.2026

Organization: UKE_Zentrum für Innere Medizin

Category: Research & Science

Department: I. Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik

Main tasks

Associated with the Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 1700 'Immune Regulation in the Liver: From Homeostasis to Disease', we offer a PhD position. CRC 1700 aims to advance our understanding of the mechanisms governing immune regulation in the liver.

The research project addresses a critical knowledge gap in the pathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), a severe immune-mediated liver disease with poorly understood disease mechanisms and a lack of effective causal therapies. While previous studies have predominantly focused on end-stage human disease or relied on inadequate animal models, this project aims to systematically dissect the functional role of pathogenic T-cell populations using a novel translational mouse model.

A key methodological innovation of the project is the targeted ablation of antigen recognition in antigen-experienced T cells through inducible T-cell receptor (TCR) inactivation using a recently developed mouse model. This experimental system enables the functional distinction between antigen-specific and antigen-independent T-cell activity in the liver and is broadly applicable to other TCR-/antigen-specific models as well as studies of infection, inflammation, tumor biology, and autoimmunity. The methodological portfolio includes a wide range of state-of-the-art techniques, including molecular biology, flow cytometry, primary murine cell culture, mouse models of autoimmune liver disease, and viral infection models.

Your tasks:

Phenotypic characterization of murine immune cells using flow cytometry

Virus culture and viral titration in cell culture systems

In vitro functional T-cell assays

Conducting animal experiments using mouse models of autoimmune liver disease

Generation and analysis of immunofluorescence microscopy data

Analysis, interpretation, and presentation of results at internal, national, and international scientific meetings

Preparation of scientific manuscripts for publication

This position is to be filled with 65 % of the regular weekly working hours and temporary for 3 years in accordance with the WissZeitVG.

Your Profile

A completed scientific university degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related life science discipline

Previous training and experience in immunology and microbiology are desirable

Prior experience with animal experimentation is advantageous

A high level of motivation, scientific curiosity, and enthusiasm for collaborative research

Applications should include a c.v., academic certificates, references, and a short personal statement outlining your suitability and motivation for the study, and your research experience to date.

Immunity status

Please note that employment is contingent upon proof of immunization or immunity against the measles virus, in accordance with applicable legal and medical requirements. Documentation (e.g., vaccination certificate) must be provided before employment begins.

Our Offer

Fair and transparent compensation in accordance with our collective bargaining agreement ( TVöD/VKA ) (€ 63,600 – € 91,100), taking into account qualifications and professional experience. The salary range applies to a full-time position of 3