PhD Student (f/m/x) position in the Department of Virus-Host Interaction
The
Leibniz Institute of Virology
(LIV) is an independent research institution for basic biomedical research. LIV is committed to research on the biology of human viruses as well as the pathogenesis of viral diseases. The institute offers the opportunity to perform cutting-edge research in a world-class research environment with excellent facilities, collaborates closely with local universities and non-university research institutions, and is a founding member of the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and the Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB). The
Department Virus-Host Interaction
(Prof. Wolfram Brune) investigates the interaction of herpesviruses (e.g., cytomegalovirus) with host cells, determinants of cell and tissue tropism, mechanisms of immune evasion, and develops novel antiviral strategies. Human cytomegalovirus is the leading cause of congenital infection worldwide. The Department is currently accepting applications for a PhD student (f/m/x) position. The position is offered for an initial 3-year appointment, commencing in January 2026.
Your tasks
The PhD project deals with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replication compartments and their formation by liquid-liquid phase separation (
Caragliano et al., Cell Rep. 2022
; Bosse & Brune, PLoS Pathog. 2023
). The aim is to develop a microscopy-based assay for identifying drugs that inhibit HCMV replication by modifying the properties of replication compartments. This is a collaborative project between the labs of Wolfram Brune
(LIV) and Jens Bosse
(CSSB), funded by the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF). We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious individual with team spirit, a high degree of curiosity, and eagerness to learn and make fundamental scientific discoveries.
Your profile
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in the life sciences (M.Sc.) or an equivalent qualification. Previous experience in virology, molecular and cell biology, or microscopy would be welcome.
What we offer
* Working as part of a highly motivated team in an international environment
* Remuneration according to TV-AVH (Hamburg Employment Law Association Collective Agreement) (comparable to TVöD), including company pension scheme
* 30 days of annual vacation
* Further training opportunities, incl. subsidized English and German courses
* Health protection offers at the Institute (in cooperation with voiio GmbH)
* Flexible, family-friendly working hours and support for unscheduled child care
* HVV Deutschland Ticket subsidy
* Canteen use subsidy
The
LIV Graduate School
is an interdisciplinary, structured PhD program for all doctoral candidates working at LIV with binding guidelines developed based on the Leibniz Association's guidelines for graduate education. Our program offers multidisciplinary training that prepares young scientists for a successful career in infectious disease research. The LIV technology platforms
provide state-of-the-art infrastructure for flow cytometry, microscopy and image analysis, next-generation sequencing, and small animal models. Applications should include a CV, a letter of motivation including previous experience and technical skills, and contact details of two or three references. Please apply with the required documents by September 20, 2025. Late applications may be considered until the position is filled.
Applications must be submitted through the
LIV Online Application Portal
.
Applications submitted by email will not be considered.
Contact:
Please direct scientific questions regarding the project to Wolfram Brune (phone +49 40 48051351).
Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV) | Martinistraße 52 (N63) | 20251 Hamburg |
www.leibniz-liv.de