The Research Unit Type 1 Diabetes Immunology at Helmholtz Munich focusses on understanding the role of regulatory T (Treg) cells in the immunopathology of autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). To do so, we combine the analysis of human immune cells from different disease stages with mechanistic studies in murine and humanized in vivo models.

We focus on two main research topics: dissecting key molecular mechanisms of Treg impairments in T1D (Serr Front Immunol 2021; Scherm Nat Commun 2019; Serr STM 2018) and investigating the heterogeneity, plasticity and functional specialization of Tregs in metabolic tissues of diabetes (Scherm Mol Metab 2022; Becker Mol Metab 2019; Kälin Cell Metab 2017). Our studies have the overarching goal to facilitate the future therapeutic and context-specific manipulation of Tregs in (autoimmune) diabetes.

The doctoral researcher will work on a project integrated into the Collaborative Research Center (CRC)/Transregio (TRR) “Heterogeneity and functional specialization of regulatory T cells in distinct microenvironments” (TRR355) funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The aim of the TRR355 is to shed light on this heterogeneity of Treg cells and how it impacts on immunological and tissue-specific disorders with the perspective to develop personalized immunotherapies.

We are looking for a highly motivated and competent PhD candiate for the project “Regulators of tissue Tregs in Type 1 Diabetes”.

What we offer you
scientific training at HELENA Graduate School work-life balance flexible working hours & time off in lieu 30 days annual leave on-site health management service	career consultation mobile work on-site nursery company pension scheme discounted public transport ticket

Munich, with its numerous lakes and its vicinity to the Alps, is considered to be one of the cities with the best quality of life worldwide. With its first-class universities and world-leading research institutions it offers an intellectually stimulating environment.

This position also provides the opportunity for you to build specialist knowledge and collect significant professional experience, both of which will help advance your scientific career.

Remuneration and social benefits are based on the collective wage agreement for public-sector employees at federal level (EG 13 50% TV EntgO Bund). In addition, there is also the possibility of granting an allowance if the necessary conditions are fulfilled. The position is (initially) limited to three years, but under certain circumstances an extension can be arranged.

To promote diversity, we welcome applications from talented people regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical abilities, religion and age. Qualified applicants with physical disabilities will be given preference.
If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we require further documents from you regarding the recognition of the degree. Please request the recognition as early as possible.