Doctoral Candidate (PhD student) position (M/W/D)

Spitze in der Medizin. Menschlich in der Begegnung.

Regensburg University Hospital leads the field in research, teaching and patient care. We employ 5000 dedicated colleagues, who provide first rate medical care for the whole of Eastern Bavaria. We offer cutting‑edge medicine, and our top professionals have access to the latest and best equipment. We are committed to the highest level of medical and nursing care for our patients, and to a teamwork that respects and values our personnel.

Department of Trauma Surgery

Doctoral Candidate (PhD student) position (m/w/d) at the Laboratory for Experimental Trauma Surgery

DC5: In vivo analysis and diagnostic profiling of biofilm‑associated medical device infections.

The position is to be filled full‑time (38.5 h/ week), limited to 3 years starting from September 1, 2026.

ISTRIDE Network

We are offering a fully funded, international doctoral position within the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Doctoral Networks (MSCA‑DN) project iSTRIDE (inter‑Sectoral Training for Research on the Pathology and Prevention of Indwelling Device Associated infEctions). iSTRIDE brings together a consortium of leading academic and industrial partners to tackle pressing issues related to Indwelling Device Associated Infections (IDAIs). The project will deepen the understanding of different types of IDAIs and develop smart diagnostic tools and effective antimicrobial coatings. Ten doctoral candidates (DCs) will receive advanced training, cross‑institutional collaboration, structured workshops, research secondments, and a hospital internship during the first year.

Tasks

Investigate microbial colonization and biofilm formation associated with medical device‑related infections. Focus on in‑vivo dynamics, diagnostic approaches, polymicrobial interactions, host inflammatory responses, and early stages of device‑associated infection development. Apply advanced molecular and imaging‑based techniques to characterize microbial composition, spatial organization, and temporal changes in biofilm communities. Explore and validate rapid, culture‑independent diagnostic strategies for detecting and monitoring device‑associated infections, in collaboration with InBiome (Dr. Dries Budding). Integrate in‑vivo models with translational diagnostics to improve early detection and support the development of prevention and treatment strategies. International secondments will focus on clinical exposure, advanced imaging (FISH), and bioinformatics.

Your Profile

We seek a highly motivated and curious doctoral candidate (M/F/D) with a strong interest in microbiology, infection biology, and medical device‑associated infections. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in biology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, molecular medicine, or a related field. Experience with microbial culture techniques, molecular biology, and/or microscopy is highly desirable. Prior exposure to animal models, biofilm research, or microbial community analysis (e.g., sequencing‑based approaches) is considered an advantage but not mandatory. We are looking for an independent, analytical, and well‑organized researcher with a proactive attitude, strong problem‑solving skills, excellent communication skills in English, and the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Eligibility Requirement

Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months during the past 3 years prior to recruitment. Candidates must not already possess a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment.

What We Offer

The Laboratory of Experimental Trauma Surgery offers a stimulating, supportive, and international environment where you can develop scientific skills and professional potential as part of a diverse and collaborative research community. The appointment is temporary full‑time for up to 36 months (PhD position) and includes a salary and allowances package in accordance with MSCA regulations. Disabled persons will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application via the online portal, including the following documents in English:

• Motivation letter describing research interests, career goals, relevant skills and experience, and explaining how the candidate’s profile aligns with the advertised DC position.
• Complete Curriculum Vitae (CV) with details of previous research and training experience, and contact information for references.

Applications are accepted via our online portal until .

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Martijn Riool (Tel: +49 (0)941 943 1605).