PhD Student (gn*) Biological Sciences

Fixed-term of 4 years | Part-time witch 65% | Salary according to TV-L E13 | Institute for Experimental Pathology

We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.

To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific expertise at the Institute for Experimental Pathology based at the Center for Inflammation Research at the University of Münster – ideally with you on board!

PROJECT TITLE:
Altered production, dynamics, and function of neutrophils are hallmarks of inflammageing 
 

THE INSTITUTE AND PROJECT:
The Institute for Experimental Pathology is led by Oliver Soehnlein. His work focuses on the importance of neutrophils in acute and chronic inflammation (Soehnlein et al., Sci Transl Med, 2011; Ferraro et al., JACC, 2019; Silvestre-Roig et al., Nature, 2019; Schumski et al., Circulation, 2021). Central to the group's mechanistic understanding of how neutrophils promote chronic, sterile inflammation is its interplay with antigen presenting cells, predominantly macrophages (Soehnlein & Lindbom, Nat Rev Immunol, 2010; Soehnlein et al., Nat Rev Immunol, 2017; Soehnlein & Libby, Nat Rev Drug Discov, 2021). It is a key feature of the group's work to unveil thus far unknown mechanistic details which are then translated towards innovative preclinical intervention strategies (Alard et al., Sci Transl Med, 2015; Silvestre-Roig et al., Nature, 2019), some of which have been patented. In this project, altered mechanisms of granulopoiesis and dysregulated neutrophil functions in ageing will be investigated. Our group is highly interdisciplinary, international, and uses state-of-the-art techniques spanning a broad range from immunology, cell and molecular biology, (spatial) single cell omics and bioinformatics. The project is embedded in national and international consortia on neutrophils and inflammation and funded by the Else Kröner-Fresenius Stiftung.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and conduct experiments utilizing state-of-the-art approaches such as:
•  Animal models of neutrophil biology and ageing
  • Flow cytometric analysis of immune cell populations from murine tissues using full spectrum flow cytometry
  • Immunohistological staining and imaging of tissue sections using multiplexed immunohistochemistry
  • Biochemical assays for cytokines and other inflammatory mediators
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across disciplines to integrate findings into a comprehensive model of ageing
• Analyze data, interpret results, and present conclusions through high-quality publications, presentations, and reports
• Contribute to manuscript preparation
• Participate actively in departmental seminars, workshops, and conferences

REQUIREMENTS:

• MSc degree in Biological Sciences
• Strong background in immunology and/or ageing biology
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas:
  • Flow cytometry-based phenotyping and sorting
  • Immunofluorescence microscopy and histopathological evaluation
  • Statistical programming languages like R or Python
• Excellent communication skills in English; proficiency in German desirable but not required
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative projects
• Willingness to participate in ongoing training programs to enhance expertise and stay up-to-date with latest methodologies

WE OFFER:

• Competitive salary according to TV-L E13 scale, initially limited to three years
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, pension plan, and family support services
• Access to world-class infrastructure, equipment, and resources
• Opportunities for professional growth, networking, and international collaboration
• Supportive environment fostering creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary exchange

For inquiries, please contact: Univ. Prof. Dr. Dr. Oliver Söhnlein, T 0251 83-53001

Apply now via our career portal until 16.04.2025 including

• Cover letter highlighting relevant experience, interests, and career goals (max. 2 pages)
• Curriculum Vitae with publication list and academic record
• Contact details for two referees familiar with your scientific achievements