PhD Student Position (m/f/d)

The position is funded by the German Research Council (DFG) and available from Summer 2025 for a period of 3 years.

Scientific goal:

Achieving a balance between immune activation and tolerance is fundamental for preserving intestinal homeostasis. Disruption of this balance can lead to intestinal disorders like inflammatory bowel disease. Our lab has recently highlighted the enteric nervous system´s (ENS) role in modulating the mucosal immune system and regulating intestinal inflammation. Enteric glia are part of the ENS, influence intestinal immune responses, and aid in resolving inflammation. Our project aims to test the hypothesis that enteric glia are pivotal in promoting control and resolution of intestinal inflammation via their ability to educate intestinal immune cells towards a state of \"immunological tolerance\". Understanding how mucosal immune cells interact with enteric glia could pave the way for new treatments for intestinal immune-mediated diseases.
By use of multi-parametric flow cytometry techniques, spatial and single-cell transcriptomics and state-of-the-art imaging techniques, we aim to identify key resolution mediators which will be further validated in in vitro and in vivo models and human tissue collections. This work will be done in close collaboration with a Belgian work group (Prof. G. Matteoli, KU Leuven), and mutual lab visits of the PhD students are planned.

Our group is part of the Cluster of Excellence ImmunoSensation2 in Bonn and offers a great environment for young researchers. The PhD position will be integrated into the local graduate program BIGS Immunosciences and Infection with outstanding training opportunities in multidisciplinary, interconnected scientific fields. Additional mentoring and networking opportunities will support it.

Requirements

• High intrinsic motivation and enthusiasm, as well as a deep interest in Biomedicine and Intestinal Immunology
• Master's degree or diploma in Life Science (Biology, Biomedicine, Molecular Medicine or comparable fields of study)
• Background in intestinal research and/or immunology.
• Expertise in flow cytometry and in vivo models are appreciated.
• English or German skills at C1 level or higher

We offer

• A salary according to the German salary scale TV-L E13 (65%)
• Possibility of using the daycare center
• Supplementary benefits in the public sector (pension plan according to VBL)
• An innovative and clinically relevant research project with the availability of state-of-the-art techniques, established disease models, and instrumentations in our lab and the multiple core facilities at the campus.
• A good methodical education and excellent supervision in a friendly group
• Possibility for further education in university and non-university courses

The University of Bonn is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. It is certified as a family-friendly university. It aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are under-represented and to promote their careers in particular. It, therefore, urges women with relevant qualifications to apply. Applications will be handled in accordance with the Landesgleichstellungsgesetz (State Equality Act). Applications from suitable individuals with a certified serious disability and those of equal status are particularly welcome.