PhD position in project A30
At the University Hospital Bonn, Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology,
the following position (TV-L13, 65%) is available immediately:
PhD student position (m/f/d)
About Us:
At the University Hospital Bonn, the Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our dynamic research team. Our focus lies in understanding the innate immune system's mechanisms for pathogen recognition and immune response against microorganisms.
Project Overview:
The advertised PhD position will investigate the recognition mechanisms of the DNA receptor cGAS. In vertebrates, receptors of the innate immune system recognize pathogens by specific structures and induce immune responses against invading microorganisms. Our research group studies cytosolic nucleic acid receptors that are central to immune defense against viruses. cGAS is essential for immune recognition of DNA viruses, but under certain conditions it can also be activated by endogenous DNA and play a role in autoinflammatory and rheumatic diseases (e.g. forms of lupus erythematosus). A better understanding of the activation of cGAS may help to exploit this signaling pathway therapeutically and thus develop antiviral or immunosuppressive therapies.
Key Responsibilities:
As a PhD student in our team, you will utilize modern molecular biology techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9, gene expression analysis, and the study of protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions. Your tasks will encompass:
• Molecular biology (cloning, PCR, RNA extraction, gene knock-outs, Western blot).
• DNA ligand-cGAS interaction analyses
• Gene expression analyses in cell lines
• Publishing your findings
Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, you should possess the following qualifications:
• An above-average diploma or master's degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Practical experience in cell culture and molecular biology.
• Very good command in both written and spoken English.
Desired Qualities:
We are looking for a candidate who is:
• Motivated and enthusiastic about immunological and virological research.
• Flexible, team-oriented, and dedicated.
• Reliable and capable of working independently.
What We Offer:
In return, we offer you:
• An opportunity to work within young and motivated teams.
• Access to state-of-the-art, international laboratory environment.
• Exposure to exciting and diverse research techniques and methods.
• Salary according to TV-L13/65%.
• Job ticket for convenient commuting.
• Additional public service pension (VBL).
Join us in spearheading research on Nucleic Acid Immunity: The project is situated within the framework of the DFG-funded SFB/Transregio 237 'Nucleic Acid Immunity.' This initiative unites Germany's foremost experts in the domains of nucleic acid recognition and innate immune response, fostering a collaborative research network. You can explore more about this endeavor on our website, www.trr237.uni-muenchen.de.
Located within the vibrant environment of Bonn, the Excellence University of Bonn is one of Germany's premier hubs for immunological research. Our facility is renowned for its state-of-the-art resources and extensive networking opportunities within the field exemplified by the Cluster of Excellence ImmunuSensation.
For PhD students, we offer a wealth of additional benefits, including comprehensive training and networking options within our graduate schools. Explore the possibilities further www.bigs-immuno.uni-bonn.de
Join us in spearheading research on Nucleic Acid Immunity and be part of a scientific journey that drives innovation and advances knowledge.
To Apply:
Please send your CV, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and motivation for this role, [and contact information for two professional references] to martin.schlee@uni-bonn.de.
The University Hospital Bonn promotes professional equality between women and men and explicitly invites women with appropriate qualifications to apply. Severely disabled persons will be given preference in case of equal suitability.
Prof. Dr. Martin Schlee
Institut für Klinische Chemie und Klinische Pharmakologie
Universität Bonn
Venusberg-Campus 1. 25, 53127 Bonn
E-Mail: martin.schlee@uni-bonn.de