PhD Student (gn*) Life Sciences, Inflammation Research
Fixed-term of 3 years | Part-time with 65% (25 hours/week) | Salary according to salary group 13 TV-L | The Department of Cardiology I - Coronary and Peripheral Vascular Disease | Job ID: 11189
We are at UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.
PROJECT TITLE:
Reversing endotoxin tolerance using a trained immunity approach
THE INSTITUTE AND PROJECT:
The inflammation and immunimetablism group at the Molecular Cardiology lab led by Dr. Yahya Sohrabi focuses on studying underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate metabolism and epigenetic changes in the development of innate immune memory (trained immunity). The goal is to develop trained immunity approach against cardiometabolic diseases and its underlying such as sepsis.
In collaboration with Prof. Mihai Netea and Dr Katarzyna Placek from the Life and Medical Sciences- Institute, University of Bonn, we investigate the mechanisms of the reversal of immune tolerance with the ultimate goal to improve patient treatment. The key feature of the project is to unveil unknown mechanistic details which are then translated towards innovative preclinical intervention strategies to reverse immune tolerance.
Our group is highly interdisciplinary, international, and uses state-of-the-art techniques spanning a broad range from immunology, cell and molecular biology, omics and bioinformatics. The project is funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft ( DFG).
Your Tasks
Design and conduct experiments utilizing state-of-the-art approaches such as:
In vitro and ex vivo cell culture, working with different types of primary and stable cells, and maybe creating knockout or knock in CRISPR/cas9
Basic and multiomics data analysis,
Flow cytometric analysis of immune cell populations
Immunohistological staining and imaging
Biochemical assays for cytokines and other inflammatory mediators
Protein analysis
Collaborate closely with colleagues across disciplines to integrate findings into a comprehensive model of atherosclerosis pathophysiology
Analyze data, interpret results, and present conclusions through high-quality publications, presentations, and reports
Contribute to manuscript preparation
Participate actively in departmental seminars, workshops, and conference
What we expect:
MSc or comparable degree in biological/ medical sciences
Strong background in immunology/molecular biology
Expertise in one or more of the following areas:
Flow cytometry-based phenotyping and sorting
Immunofluorescence microscopy and histopathological evaluation
Statistical programming languages like R or Python
Good communication skills in English; proficiency in German desirable but not required
Willingness to work independently while contributing effectively to collaborative projects
Willingness to participate in ongoing training programs to enhance expertise and stay up to date with latest methodologies
What we offer:
Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, pension plan, and family support services
Access to infrastructure, equipment, and resources
Opportunities for professional growth, networking, and international collaboration
Supportive environment fostering your own ideas, innovation, and interdisciplinary exchange
For inquiries, please contact: Yahya Sohrabi, Yahya.sohrabi@ukmuenster.de
Apply now until October 15, 2025 and include
Cover letter highlighting relevant experience, interests, and career goals (max. 2 pages)
Curriculum Vvitae with publication list and academic record
Contact details for two referees familiar with your scientific achievements
BENEFITS
Exciting Projects
Professional Development and Training
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Part of Research Innovation
Additional Benefits
Exciting Projects
Professional Development and Training
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Part of Research Innovation
Additional Benefits
(*gn=gender neutral)
The University Hospital of Münster is one of the leading hospitals in Germany. Such a position cannot be achieved by size and medical successes alone. The individual commitment counts above all. We need your commitment so that even with little things we can achieve great things for our patients. There are many possibilities open for you so that you may develop with them.
Universitätsklinikum Münster
Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude D5
48149 Münster
www.ukm.de