Doktorand / PhD Student (gn*) Molecular Virology and Cell Biology
Fixed-term of 3 years | Part-time with 65% (25 hours/week) | Salary according to TV-L E 13 | Institute of Cellular Virology | Job ID: 11386
We are UKM. We have a clear social mission and, with our focus on healthcare, research, and teaching, we bear a unique responsibility.
To meet our high standards every day, we are looking forward to your scientific support - ideally with you on board!
Institute and research:
The Institute of Cellular Virology, headed by Prof. Dr. Mario Schelhaas, is embedded within a vibrant research environment and part of various research networks. Located within the Centre of Molecular Biology of Inflammation, a state-of-the-art research institution, we offer an internationally renowned research and training environment and established strong collaborations within Europe and the USA
Our research focuses on investigating host-pathogen interactions with a strong emphasis on cell biological mechanisms. Viruses as simple, obligatory, intracellular parasites depend on the host cell for their life cycle. For initial infection and cell entry, viruses hijack cellular processes such as signaling, membrane trafficking, intra- and intercellular transport, nuclear import and export, and mitosis. Following viruses, thus, provides a unique opportunity to analyze these cellular mechanisms. Hence, our research on virus-host interactions of small DNA tumor viruses during cell entry in the Schelhaas laboratory focusses as much on the understanding of the basic cellular biology as it does help to fight viral diseases (for recent insights into our work please refer to Brinkert et al., EMBO Rep., 2025, Bano et al., Sci. Adv., 2024, Feng et al., Nat. Commun. 2024, Rizzato et al., 2024). Using cellular and molecular techniques in combination with super-resolution microscopy, systems biology approaches, and advanced imaging techniques in live cells, organoids, and organisms, the laboratory continues to identify and elucidate basic mechanisms of tumor virus infections in cells. Moreover, making exciting new strides into uncharted territories, we investigate how cell differentiation, pre-existing immune conditions, superinfections, aging, etc. affect the infection outcome using model systems that mimic such conditions.
The successful applicant will thus join an exciting research program in a motivating working group to investigate the molecular mechanisms on how small DNA tumor viruses infect cells and how cell niche influences infection and its outcome.
What we expect:
MSc or similar degree in Cell Biology/Virology or similar
Strong background in cell biology or virology
Commitment to research, and motivation for interdisciplinary work
Good communication skills and proficiency in English
The following qualifications are considered an asset:
Strong background in (live cell) microscopy
Experience with superresolution microscopy, computational image analysis
Experience in working with complex cell cultures (epithelial models, organoids)
Existing publication record
What we offer:
An international and motivating working environment
Research laboratories with cutting-edge and state-of-the-art equipment
Excellent possibilities for career development
Contact: Prof. Dr. M. Schelhaas: schelhaas@uni-muenster.de
Apply now via our career portal until 26.11.2025 including:
CV
Short letter of motivation
Record of publications
Contact information of two references in your application
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.
Questions about how to apply? Click here
Equal opportunities are a part of our Human Resources Policy. UKM supports the compatibility of work and family life and is certified as "Family-friendly Company" since 2010. Applications of women are specifically invited. In the case of similar qualifications, competence, and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Handicapped candidates with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Due to legal requirements working with us is only permitted with complete vaccination against measles.
Universitätsklinikum Münster
Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude D5
48149 Münster
www.ukm.de