PhD candidate (f/m/x) - Investigating Epithelial-T cell interactions in the aging lung using organoid systems

At Helmholtz Munich, we develop groundbreaking solutions for a healthier society in a rapidly changing world. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. Through strong partnerships, we accelerate the transfer of new ideas from the lab to real-life applications, improving lives.

At the Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), we investigate the molecular and immunological mechanisms underlying chronic lung diseases such as COPD, lung fibrosis, asthma, lung cancer, and complications after lung transplantation. Our mission is to translate basic findings into preventative and therapeutic approaches for patients. You will join a stimulating, international and interdisciplinary environment, supported by excellent infrastructure and collaborations with renowned scientists.

This PhD position is jointly hosted by the Funk & Lehmann labs and builds on our expertise in organoid technology, aging biology, and epithelial-immune cell interactions. The project focuses on how the aging immune system – in particular aged T cells – impacts the regenerative capacity of epithelial stem cells, a process critically involved in age-related lung diseases. Special emphasis will be placed on direct epithelial-T cell interactions.

Methodologically, you will employ organoid-T cell co-cultures alongside state-of-the-art techniques such as image-based flow cytometry, spatial transcriptomics, and genetic engineering of organoids. The position is embedded in the DFG Priority Programme SPP2493 \“Heterotypic Cell-Cell Interactions in Epithelial Tissues\“ (HetCCI), which provides training, mentoring, and career development opportunities for early-career researchers.

Your tasks

• Work with primary mouse-derived lung organoids and establish organoid-T cell co-cultures
• Identify and characterize T cell subsets, and analyze cell-cell interactions using histopathology, imaging, and flow cytometry
• Apply genetic engineering and gene expression analysis in organoid systems
• Perform in vitro cell culture and functional assays to investigate epithelial-immune dynamics
• Manage your project independently, including data analysis, quality assurance, and the preparation of reports and publications

Your profile

• Master\’s degree in biology, molecular biology, immunology, molecular bioengineering, or a related field
• Solid practical and theoretical expertise in cell and molecular biology, including (primary) cell culture; prior experience with organoids, flow cytometry and/or immunology is an advantage
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, with very good written and spoken English

Desirable qualifications

• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 and/or T cell biology
• FELASA B (or equivalent certificate)

This position provides the opportunity for you to build specialist knowledge whilst developing key professional experience, both of which will help you to make strides in your scientific career.

Remuneration and social security benefits are based on the German Collective Wage Agreement for Public-Sector Employees at Federal Level (EG 13 50% TV EntgO Bund). In addition, there is also the possibility of receiving an allowance if the applicable conditions are met. The position has an (initial) fixed term of three years but may be extended under certain circumstances.

Interested in applying?

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Maja Funk, maja.funk@helmholtz-munich.de, who will be happy to help.

Our recruiting is decentralized – your application will be reviewed directly by the specialist department in which you could work in the future.

More information about our application process

Please send your application only via our online application tool and with the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter
• Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates
• Contact details for at least two referees

• Letter of Motivation

23.09.2025

If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we will require further documents from you regarding the comparability of your degree. Please request the Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications as early as possible.

Benefits

• Personal Development: Comprehensive in-house training and development opportunities
• Scientific Resources: State-of-the-art infrastruture and Core Facilities
• Recreation: 30 days annual leave, flexi days, plus public holidays
• International Staff Service: Support with the relocation and integration process in Germany
• Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives
• Work-Life-Balance: Flexible working hours and flexi-time models