The Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center (RCB) is an internationally renowned research institute with 368 employees, financed by the Federal Government and the State of Schleswig-Holstein. Our central task is research and patient care in the field of respiratory diseases. We operate both basic research infrastructures and a medical clinic. Our goal is to improve existing methods for the detection, prevention and treatment of lung diseases and to develop new, innovative therapeutic approaches. The Leibniz Research Alliance INFECTIONS, as coordinated by RCB, combines the multidisciplinary expertise of 15 Leibniz-Institutes for infection research in an interdisciplinary manner with a focus on antimicrobial resistance. Within the Leibniz Research Alliance INFECTIONS, the RCB is looking for a highly motivated PhD student. Supervised by an interdisciplinary supervisor team, the project progress is monitored by regular consortium meetings. The candidate is embedded in the Borstel Biomedical Research School that offers a structured training program for postgraduates, including lectures, soft skills and regular meetings. We are announcing a position as PhD Student (m/f/d) within the Leibniz Research Alliance INFECTIONS in a joint project between Dept. of Biophysics and Cellular Microbiology for 3 years Topic: Biofilm Biology and Koinfection PROJECT DESCRIPTION: In respiratory infections, multispecies biofilms often comprising bacterial and fungal opportunists are difficult to treat and can give rise antimicrobial resistant strains. Bacterial and fungal opportunists can also exacerbate lung infections as caused by respiratory viruses. The successful applicant will investigate the interactions between multispecies biofilms and viral infections in an air liquid interface model. Delineation of the mutual interactions between different pathogens and the epithelium will contribute to the identification of putative handles for better treatment including phages and new antimicrobials. YOUR QUALIFICATION: MSc (or equivalent) in natural or life sciences Strong background in molecular microbiology and cell biology Strong interest in advanced imaging and biophysics Proven practical lab skills Very good command of English OUR OFFER: A workplace located in a top research center close to Hamburg Participation in a productive and active team effort Personal atmosphere and support Payment according to TVöD-VKA (65%) incl. all benefits usually offered in the public sector Family-friendly working conditions and flexible working hours Childcare center and workplace health promotion The Research Center Borstel is an equal opportunity employer that actively supports inclusivity and diversity. We are certified by audit berufundfamilie. We encourage female candidates to apply and will treat them favorably in case of equal qualifications. Disabled applicants with equal qualifications will be preferred. For more information about our certifications, please visit our homepage. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Prof. Dr. Thomas Gutsmann (tgutsmann@fz-borstel.de). Please apply with the usual documents (without photo) by 28.06.2025 on our website www.fz-borstel.de. For us, your age, gender and sexual identity, your world view, your ethnicity or a handicap are not important. We are solely interested in your knowledge and skills and your ability to work in a team. If attractive work content and a solution-oriented approach are more important to you than formalities, you are in the right place!