PhD Student in Translational Viral Immunology | PhD student (f/m/x)

Universitätsklinikum Köln AöR

Köln, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Deutschland
Published Feb 5, 2026
Full-time
Fixed-term

Job Summary

This role is an exciting opportunity for an early-career scientist to undertake a three-year, fixed-term PhD project focused on Translational Viral Immunology, specifically characterizing viral antibody resistance mechanisms in people living with HIV. The successful candidate will independently plan and execute a clinically relevant research project, involving the detection, analysis, and functional characterization of HIV-1 envelope sequences and antibody sensitivity. Day-to-day tasks include establishing and performing complex immunological and virological assays, such as primary cell work, virus cultures, PCR, flow cytometry, and analyzing large datasets. The position requires a strong background in life sciences, exceptional scientific motivation, and the ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary and international research environment, with the ultimate goal of publishing findings in high-impact international journals.

Required Skills

Education

Master’s or Diploma degree in life sciences, medicine, or a related field

Experience

  • Professional experience in planning and executing independent research projects
  • Experience with immunological and virological assays
  • Experience presenting results at conferences
  • Experience preparing manuscripts for publication

Languages

German (Basic)English (Fluent)

Additional

  • Fixed-term contract for three years (pursuant to the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act - WissZeitVG); Must be able to work 25 hours/week (64.94% TV-L position).