PhD in Immunology and Exosome Biology (m/w/d)

Application deadline: 25/04/2025

Applications are invited for a PhD student position under the supervision of Dr. Haroon Shaikh at the Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg. This position is part of a German Research Foundation (DFG)-funded project investigating the role of exosomes as initiators of acute inflammation following allogeneic stem cell transplantation and their prognostic potential in risk stratification for graft-versus-host disease (GvHD).

Our research group is dedicated to advancing the understanding of the tumor microenvironment and allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-HCT), with a specific focus on cellular mechanisms and interactions that drive pro- or anti-inflammatory responses (Shaikh H et al., Front Immunol, 2021; Shaikh H et al., JCI Insight, 2022; Flamann et al., Blood, 2025; Dahlhoff J et al., Leukemia, 2022; Ataide MA et al., Immunity, 2022).

• World-Class Research Facilities – Gain access to cutting-edge laboratories and advanced technology to drive innovation.
• Attractive Compensation Package – Enjoy a competitive TV-L salary, a secure company pension scheme, and annual special payments.
• Tailored Career Development – Wide-ranging further training and individual further training in our own academy.
• Pioneering Research Environment – Work on groundbreaking scientific challenges alongside leading international experts.
• Dedicated Mentorship & Academic Growth – Receive continuous guidance and support to advance your scientific career.
• Prestigious Graduate School Access – Enhance your expertise through training at the renowned Graduate School of Life Sciences (GSLS), University of Würzburg.

• Project Development & Execution – Design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and ensure project milestones and objectives are met.
• Scientific Writing – Prepare detailed reports and draft manuscripts for publication.
• Research Dissemination – Present findings at local meetings, as well as national and international conferences.
• Mentorship & Training – Support the development of junior researchers, including Master’s and undergraduate students.

• ​​​​​​Outstanding Master's degree in life sciences or a related field (or equivalent)
• Strong foundation and keen interest in immunology and/or cell biology
• High level of motivation, creativity, and problem-solving skills, with a passion for method development
• Hands-on experience with cell culture and/or animal handling
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Practical experience with mouse models of cancer and/or autoimmunity
• Proficiency in molecular and biochemical standard laboratory techniques
• Familiarity with RNA sequencing, proteomics analysis, and bioinformatics

Please submit complete application documents, including a letter of motivation, certificates, letter(s) of recommendation/employment references, and a detailed description of your previous activities and research experience.

The advertised position is limited to one year, with the possibility of extension.

• Training and Continuing Education
• Retirement Pension Plan
• Flexible Working Hours
• Collegiality
• Sport and Fitness Options
• Employee Events
• Corporate Benefits