PhD student (m/f/d)
The research group (head: Prof. Dr. Yvonne Samstag) investigates molecular mechanisms that control the activation and motility of immune cells in physiological and pathophysiological settings. As part of the SFB interdisciplinary collaborative research centre CRC156 ("The skin as sensor and effector organ orchestrating local and systemic immune responses"), the PhD project (CRC156-B04) aims to reveal new insights into influencing immune cell activation in allergy and chronic inflammatory skin diseases (e.g. allergic contact dermatitis and psoriasis). Particularly, it will focus on investigating and modulating the molecular mechanisms regulating the interaction between primary human keratinocytes and T cells, including application of an in vitro human skin equivalent model. Moreover, the role of actin-remodeling proteins for the function of different immune cells and their potential as therapeutic target will be analyzed by making use of knock-in and knock-out mouse models.
The aim of the project is to better understand the molecular mechanisms of inflammatory skin diseases and to identify potential therapeutic targets. The work will include a variety of biomedical and immunological research methods (e.g. in vivo mouse models, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology), that are largely established in the research group.
The opportunity to shape the project with own ideas and to start developing an independent scientific profile will be given and encouraged.
Tasks and responsibilities:
- design, implementation, and conductance of the project-related lab work (e.g. 2D in vitro coculture system, human skin equivalent models, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, multi-color flow microscopy, mouse experiments)
- communication with collaborating research groups of the CRC156
Your profile:
- M. Sc. degree in the field of biology or related
- basic knowledge of cell and molecular biology is required
- hands-on experience with primary cells is preferable
- experience in multi-color flow cytometry is preferable
- experience in working with laboratory animals is preferable
- high degree of motivation, enthusiasm in research, very good organizational skills
- excellent English language skills
We offer:
- an exciting project in an international research group and collaborative environment
- state-of-the-art research facilities
- support for your personal and career development through internal training programs at Heidelberg University, individual supervision, and participation in conferences
- a competitive salary according to TV-L
Contact & Application:
For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Yvonne Samstag:
yvonne.samstag(at)urz.uni-heidelberg.de
Please send your full application (letter of motivation, CV, and certificates) and two reference addresses in one PDF file to Irmgard.Barnes(at)urz.uni-heidelberg.de .
Application deadline: October 15th, 2023
Websites: