PhD-student (M/F/D) - Cell Biology and immunology

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Germany

Updated: about 1 month ago
Location: Gottingen, NIEDERSACHSEN

The research group “Translational Neuroinflammation” under the direction of Prof. Martin Weber at the Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Branch for Translational Neuroinflammation and Automated Microscopy (TNM) in Göttingen invites applications for a position as a PhD-student (M/F/D) - Cell Biology and immunology.
The Fraunhofer branch “Translational Neuroinflammation and Automated Microscopy” (TNM) in Göttingen is part of the “Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology” (ITMP). The Research group “Translational Neuroinflammation” focusses on understanding pathological and immunological mechanisms in the development and progression of demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system (CNS).
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS. For relapsing-remitting MS, huge progress has been made in the development of various disease-modifying therapies, which effectively reduce the number and the severity of new relapses as well as MRI activity. During progressive stages of MS, in which new lesions become less frequent, and the progression is characterized by a steady increase in neurological disability, most of the drugs on the market are unable to prevent disease progression.
The aim of this study is to test suitable candidates for the treatment of progressive MS via animal models and in vitro analysis. For in vivo experiments, we will utilize the murine MS model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) as well as the cuprizone-induced model of demyelination. For in vitro experiments, primary cell cultures of CNS-resident cells will be used. The main methods of this study will be among others flow cytometry, magnetic-activated cell sorting, ELISA, qPCR and immunohistology.

What you will do

  • Plan and perform experiments
  • Analyze the experiments, interpret and present the data
  • Co-supervise of interns
  • Work in an interdisciplinary and international environment
  • Support cooperation partners from industry and medicine

PhD students have the opportunity to participate in one of several PhD programs in collaboration with the University of Göttingen. Candidates will have the possibility to present their work at conferences and publish in scientific journals. Through close cooperation with the University Medical Center Göttingen, we have access to a broad range of techniques and facilities.

What you bring to the table

Highly motivated and have a strong interest to work at the interface between research, medicine, and industry. PhD-students furthermore:

  • Hold a Master’s or equivalent degree in Immunology, Molecular Medicine, Biology, Biochemistry or related fields
  • Have experience with cellular- and molecular biology techniques (FACS, ELISA and qPCR)
  • Are interested in animal studies; experience with murine disease models will be advantageous but not a requirement 
  • Are proficient in the English language (written and spoken) and have German knowledge

Your professional qualifications are complemented by a quick grasp, structured and independent way of working and a good team spirit.

What you can expect

  • Good work-life balance thanks to flexible working hours with flexitime model
  • 30 days of vacation as well as Christmas and New Year's Eve as work-free days
  • Personal pension scheme (VBL) and other benefits from the public sector, e.g. annual special payment
  • Capital-forming benefits
  • Subsidy for the Deutschland-Ticket job ticket
  • Personal development opportunities through a wide range of further training opportunities
  • Corporate benefits: offers from well-known manufacturers and brands

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD).

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Questions to Position:
Prof. Martin Weber / Dr. Darius Häusler: +49 551 39-63658


If you have any questions about the application process, please contact Dr. Ursula Wegenka (E-Mail: [email protected], phone +49 551 39 65284)

Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP 

www.itmp.fraunhofer.de  

Requisition Number: 72711                


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