PhD candidate (f/m/x) - Immune-non-immune cell-cell interactions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Full time39 hrs/week
Munich
We are Helmholtz Munich. In a rapidly changing world, we discover breakthrough solutions for better health.
Our research is focused within the areas of metabolic health/diabetes, environmental health, molecular targets and therapies, cell programming and repair, bioengineering, and computational health. We particularly excel in the fields of basic research, bioengineering, artificial intelligence, and technological development.
Through this research, we build the foundations for medical innovation. Together with our partners, we seek to accelerate the transfer of our research, so that laboratory ideas can reach society and improve people’s quality of life at the fastest rate possible.
This is what drives us. Why not join us and make a difference?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive, debilitating respiratory condition characterized by persistent inflammation and irreversible tissue damage in the airways and lungs, driven by exposure to harmful agents like cigarette smoke and environmental pollutants. While the role of myeloid immune cells, such as monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils in sustaining chronic inflammation is well-established, the contributions of non-immune lung cells, such as epithelial, small capillaries, fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells are emerging as critical yet understudied factors. To investigate the dynamic crosstalk between immune and non-immune cells and their implications in lung injury and regeneration, the Kapellos lab is seeking to hire a talented PhD candidate (f/m/x) who will combine single-cell omics technologies with highly multiplexed imaging and in vitro functional assays.
"We believe that excellent research requires a range of different perspectives. Diverse teams reach better solutions and are more innovative in their research topics.
Establishing our Diversity Management Strategy demonstrates our commitment to ensuring an appreciative company culture based on mutual respect. We are also implementing diversity-sensitive processes throughout our whole organization."
Your tasks
- Perform and analyze imaging data from human and murine lung tissues
- Integrate single-cell transcriptomics with imaging and metabolomics data
- Explore cell-cell interactions in ex vivo human lung models, including precision cut lung slices and immunocompetent organoids
- Present work in national and international scientific meetings
- Write reports and carry out other duties as assigned
Your profile
- Master's degree in immunology or similar
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Experience in human cell culture, immunofluorescent microscopy/immunohistochemistry, multi-color flow cytometry and molecular biology methods
- Enthusiasm to work in an interdisciplinary group consisting of basic scientists, clinicians and bioinformaticians
- Strong organizational and time management skills; capable of handling multiple tasks
- Proactive and forward-thinking approach
- Dedication and full commitment to the research objectives
- Open to continuous learning and ability to work independently
Will be considered a plus:
- Familiarity with genomics technologies
- Previous experience in programming (R/Python)
Benefits
- Scientific Training: Helmholtz Munich Graduate School
- Career counseling: Career Center for PhD candidates
- Recreation: 30 days annual leave, flexi days, plus public holidays
- Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives
- International Staff Service: Support with the relocation and integration process in Germany
Since 2005, we hold the TOTAL E-QUALITY award for exemplary action in the sense of an equal-opportunity organizational culture.
Helmholtz Munich is actively committed to diversity and inclusion in practice and is sustainably committed to equality.
The Diversity Charter has set itself the goal of promoting diversity in the world of work. By signing the charter, we commit ourselves to create an appreciative working environment for all employees.
This position provides the opportunity for you to build specialist knowledge whilst developing key professional experience, both of which will help you to make strides in your scientific career.
Remuneration and social security benefits are based on the German Collective Wage Agreement for Public-Sector Employees at Federal Level (EG 13 50% TV EntgO Bund). In addition, there is also the possibility of receiving an allowance if the applicable conditions are met. The position has an (initial) fixed term of three years but may be extended under certain circumstances.
We are committed to promoting a culture of diversity and welcome applications from talented people regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical abilities, religion or age. Qualified applicants with physical disabilities will be given preference. If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we will require further documents from you regarding the comparability of your degree. Please request the Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications as early as possible.
Interested in applying?
- CV
- Cover letter
- Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates
- Contact details for at least two referees
