PhD Student (m/f/d) – Life Sciences, Biology, Immunology

Beginn

Biologe/Biologin

part-time | temporary (48 months) | Institute for Molecular Allergology (ZAUM)

The ZAUM (Center for Allergy and Environment) is a scientific research institute for Molecular Allergology of the Technical University of Munich, the TUM Klinikum Rechts der Isar and the Helmholtz Zentrum München. Within the framework of the German Center of Lung Research (DZL), we explore immune mechanisms in allergy and inflammatory airway diseases and develop innovative interventions for disease prevention and treatment.

The research group "Airway Immunology " led by PD Dr. Constanze Jakwerth and Prof. Dr. Carsten Schmidt-Weber is seeking a highly motivated PhD Student.

Responsibilities

• Advanced cell culture models (primary human airway epithelial cells, 3D and organotypic cultures, air–liquid interface models)
• Transcriptomics and advanced molecular biology techniques
• Proteomics and secretome analysis
• Analysis of epithelial immune responses and mediator profiles at RNA and protein level
• Immunofluorescence staining, microscopy and image analysis
• Single-cell analysis (flow cytometry, single-cell sequencing, confocal microscopy)
• Independent planning, execution, documentation and critical interpretation of experiments

Your profile

• University degree in life sciences, biology, biochemistry, molecular medicine or similar
• Hands-on experience in cellular biology, immunology, epithelial biology, or omics technologies (transcriptomics/proteomics is a plus)
• Strong interest in translational and mechanistic research on allergic and inflammatory airway diseases
• High motivation, curiosity, and ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Enthusiasm for translational research on allergic and inflammatory diseases

We offer you

• Research Funding: The PhD project is designed for a duration of four years. Funding is provided for a three-year scholarship through the IGSSE JADS program followed by a one-year employment contract as PhD student at ZAUM. The program includes a dedicated one-year research stay at the renowned Imperial College London, supported by additional IGSSE funding for your stay abroad.
• International Experience: A funded research stay at Imperial College London under the supervision of Prof. Clare Lloyd, providing exposure to an internationally leading research environment.
• Mentorship and Support: Close scientific supervision and structured training provided by experienced and qualified scientists.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Access to a vibrant network of immunologists, bioinformaticians, clinicians and experimental scientists within DZL and international consortia.
• Innovative Research Environment: State-of-the-art infrastructure including high-dimensional flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, advanced transcriptomics and single-cell platforms, and human airway epithelial culture systems.
• Career Development: Support for scientific training, conference participation, and professional development within structured graduate programs.
• Quality of Life: Excellent working conditions in Munich-Schwabing with very good public transport connectivity and discounts on job tickets for MVV, MVG, Deutsche Bahn, Meridian, and BOB.

We look forward to your application!

If the candidates’ suitability for the position in question is equal, severely disabled applicants shall be given preference. Interview-related costs can, unfortunately, not be reimbursed.