PhD position (m/f/d) Immunology

The LIT - Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy (foundation under civil law) (http://www.rcii.de/en/ ), formerly RCI – is a biomedical research center focusing on translational immunology in the fields of cancer immunotherapy, transplant rejection and autoimmunity. The objective of the LIT is to develop innovative and efficient cellular immune therapeutics in these areas. Our own GMP laboratories and close networking with University and University Hospital offer excellent opportunities for clinical translation of novel immune cell products.

The Division of Immunology headed by Prof. Markus Feuerer at the LIT (https://www.rcii.de/forschung/abteilungen/abteilung-fuer-immunologie/ueber-uns/ ) is looking for a highly motivated and talented PhD student to pursue cutting-edge research in the field of immune regulation,  immune tissue residency and tissue-immune communication and regeneration.

About the project

The Division of Immunology is interested in investigating the mechanisms underlying the complex interplay of immune cell regulation. With the help of state-of-the-art methods such as single cell RNA-sequencing, epigenetic profiling such as ATAC-sequencing and DNA-methylation analysis, as well as lineage-specific gene deletion and transgenic model systems, we are aiming to reveal the molecular basis of specialized regulatory T cells in tissues. These Treg cells can monitor other immune cells and reduce their activity. In addition, this intriguing subset of Treg cells, which is also called ‘tissue-Treg cells’, can contribute to tissue regeneration, homeostasis and healing of injuries. The Division of Immunology aims to better understand the tissue-type differentiation and their function (Delacher et al. Nature Immunology, 2017). The differentiation into the tissue-Treg phenotype starts in precursors in lymphoid organs and ends in the tissues (Delacher et al. Immunity, 2020). We recently characterized human tissue-Treg cells on a molecular level (Delacher et al. Immunity, 2021). In our ongoing research, we are investigating how these cells contribute to homeostasis and tissue regeneration. We are examining which factors, molecules, and mechanisms are used to communicate with tissue cells to trigger the regeneration processes.

Requirements

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who is enthusiastic to work in an ambitious team on a competitive project, and who fits the following profile:

• Track record of keen interest in the immune system and molecular mechanisms involved
• Master in biology/biochemistry/molecular medicine or related fields
• Creative mind that is eager to shape the project and who wants to make an important impact on immunological and biomedical research
• Experimental training in molecular biology and immunology, in particular working with T cells
• Hands-on experience in multi-color flow cytometry
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English
• Experience in mouse models (FELASA certificate) would be advantageous

What we offer

Our lab offers the opportunity to work at the tissue-interface of immunology, inflammatory diseases, and cancer, which is one of the most exciting fields of recent biomedical research. We provide a dynamic and motivating working environment where you can foster your skills and get the opportunity to learn cutting-edge technologies such as single cell technologies, CRISPR gene editing, T cell engineering.

• An international research environment that offers exciting and diverse opportunities
• Varied field of activity
• Flat hierarchies and short decision-making processes
• A highly motivated and cooperative team
• Individual development opportunities
• Flexible working hours
• Job ticket

The remuneration is based on TV-L.

Moreover, the LIT advocates for the compatibility of family and career.

Disabled applicants (m/f/d) with equal qualifications will receive preferential treatment within the recruitment procedure. Please refer to your disability status already in your application.

Please note that expenses that may arise in the context of an eventual job interview cannot be reimbursed.

For more information, please contact Prof. Markus Feuerer ([email protected] ). We are looking forward to your detailed application.

Please apply via our homepage http://www.rcii.de quoting the reference MF-2023-2

Application deadline is December 20th, 2023.