PhD candidate (f/m/x) – Investigating Epithelial-T cell interactions in the aging lung using organoid systems

At Helmholtz Munich, we develop groundbreaking solutions for a healthier society in a rapidly changing world. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. Through strong partnerships, we accelerate the transfer of new ideas from the lab to real-life applications, improving lives.

At the Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), we investigate the molecular and immunological mechanisms underlying chronic lung diseases such as COPD, lung fibrosis, asthma, lung cancer, and complications after lung transplantation. Our mission is to translate basic findings into preventative and therapeutic approaches for patients. You will join a stimulating, international and interdisciplinary environment, supported by excellent infrastructure and collaborations with renowned scientists.

This PhD position is jointly hosted by the Funk & Lehmann labs and builds on our expertise in organoid technology, aging biology, and epithelial–immune cell interactions. The project focuses on how the aging immune system – in particular aged T cells – impacts the regenerative capacity of epithelial stem cells, a process critically involved in age-related lung diseases. Special emphasis will be placed on direct epithelial–T cell interactions.

Methodologically, you will employ organoid–T cell co-cultures alongside state-of-the-art techniques such as image-based flow cytometry, spatial transcriptomics, and genetic engineering of organoids. The position is embedded in the DFG Priority Programme SPP2493 „Heterotypic Cell-Cell Interactions in Epithelial Tissues" (HetCCI), which provides training, mentoring, and career development opportunities for early-career researchers.