PhD-Student (gn*) Life Sciences, Inflammation Research

Fixed-term of 3 years | Part-time with 65% (25 hours/week) | Salary according to TV-L E13 | The 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 in the Institute for Experimental Pathology based at the Center for Inflammation Research at the University of Münster – ideally with you on board!

PROJECT TITLE:

• Investigating the Interaction between Infection and Vascular Inflammation

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 with specific focus on atherosclerosis and its complications such as myocardial infarction and neointimal hyperplasia (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. 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 cardiovascular inflammation and funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and conduct experiments utilizing state-of-the-art approaches such as:
  • Animal models of infection and atherosclerosis
  • 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 atherosclerosis pathophysiology
• 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 vascular 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:

• 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: Oliver Soehnlein, T 0251 83-53001

Apply now via our career portal until 26.03.2025 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