Research Associate / PhD Candidate in Microbiology | Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter / Doktorand (PhD-Position) in der Mikrobiologie (m/w/d)

Job Summary

This fixed-term PhD research position, based at the Institute for Medical Microbiology at Jena University Hospital, focuses on investigating the intersection of aging, epigenetic regulation, and antiviral immunity. The core project aims to understand how aging processes influence the function and epigenetic profile of CD8+ T-cells and the subsequent impact on the immune response against influenza viruses. Key daily tasks involve the isolation and analysis of human T-cells from blood samples, utilizing advanced high-throughput methods such as RNA-Seq, ATAC-Seq, DNA Methylation, and Mass Spectrometry. The role requires establishing and running T-cell stimulation and killing assays, working with primary human lung fibroblasts, and managing influenza infections in a laboratory setting. Candidates must possess a completed Master’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Immunology, Molecular Medicine), practical experience in cell culture, and molecular biological methods. This opportunity is ideal for ambitious researchers seeking a doctoral degree (PhD) in a modern laboratory environment focused on highly translational and impactful research.