International Research Training Group 3109 Molecular and Cellular Plasticity in the Cardiovascular System The International Research Training Group 3109 is a transatlantic German-American Research Alliance of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany, and the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA. At the partner site Düsseldorf, we offer 9 PhD positions (65 % TVL-E13) for highly motivated MSc (f/m/d) in Molecular/Cellular Biology and/or Bioinformatics interested to perform their PhD thesis for up to four years in molecular cardiovascular research starting in October 2025. The temporary position serves as qualification according to §2 Abs 1 WissZeitVG. The opportunity to make a dissertation takes place within an International Research Training Group funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The IRTG 3109 (www.irtg3109.hhu.de) is a DFG funded international research program which aims to advance training of doctoral students in natural sciences and medicine. Key feature of the program is an ambitious research program dedicated to study cellular plasticity in the cardiovascular system. In addition, PhD students will complete an interdisciplinary training program in cardiovascular biology, practical courses, and soft skill training. A particular focus will be on bioinformatic analysis of omics data. The program offers a six-month research phase in the partner laboratory at the University of Virginia. Our Research: There is accumulating evidence that the cells constituting the cardiovascular system may undergo extensive phenotypic changes depending on mechanical, metabolic, or inflammatory influences. This plastic modulation leads to the formation of altered cell types, which can even undergo further conversion, e.g. endothelial to mesenchymal transition. The altered cellular composition of organs may be of critical importance for organ function and dysfunction. To investigate novel mechanisms of cellular plasticity, researchers of IRTG3109 use a wide range of tools ranging from in vivo and ex vivo models of normal cardiovascular function and disease, lineage tracing in heart and vessels and, in particular, latest omics technologies in combination with cutting edge bioinformatics tools. The projects will focus on Endothelial/Smooth Muscle Cell Plasticity, Fibroblast Plasticity and Fibroblast - Cardiomyocyte - Immune Cell Interactions. Please visit our website www.irtg3109.hhu.de for detailed project descriptions and participating PI. We are seeking to recruit highly qualified, energetic and dynamic researchers holding a Master of Science degree with a strong background in molecular and/or cellular biology, physiology, or in bioinformatics. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory. Creative and stimulating working conditions are offered in a dynamic international research environment with access to a broad spectrum of high-end technology in molecular biology, cell biology, transcriptomics/genomics and bioinformatics.