PhD student (m/f/d) in Bonn

The arbovirus research group of PD Dr.

Beate Kümmerer at the Institute of Virology at the University Hospital Bonn (Germany) is looking for a highly motivated
Ph D student (m/f/d)
to join our team and explore the fascinating biology of orthoflavivirus-host interaction in mosquitoes and vertebrates.

The Ph D position (65% E13 salary according to DFG recommendations), initially limited to three years, is advertised within the framework of the DFG-funded CRC/Transregio 237 “Nucleic Acid Immunity” and is to be filled by January 2027.

The position is offered on a fixed-term basis until December 31, 2029.

Project description

Mosquito-borne RNA viruses, such as dengue, yellow fever, and Zika virus, cause severe disease outbreaks worldwide.

As climate change drives the spread of mosquito vectors, the regions affected by these viruses continue to expand.

Orthoflaviviruses have evolved multiple strategies to evade innate immune recognition, thereby promoting viral replication and pathogenesis.

The project aims to elucidate how viral RNA structures and RNA modifications shape innate immune recognition.

A particular focus will be the identification of mosquito proteins that recognize viral cap0 RNA and the characterization of viral immune antagonists in both mosquito and vertebrate hosts.

We hope to gain mechanistic insights into virus–host interactions that support the development of innovative antiviral therapies and sustainable vector control strategies.

Methods: Molecular biology methods, cell culture and virological methods, RNA-protein and protein-protein interaction studies, gene expression analyses, cellular knock-down, as well as research involving mosquitoes.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in life sciences
• Enthusiasm for research in a collaborative environment
• Commitment to the research project
• Profound knowledge in basic molecular biological methods and cell culture
• Experience in virology and/or protein-RNA/protein interaction studies would be ideal
• Eligibility, willingness and physical fitness to work in a biosafety level (BSL) 3 laboratory
• Interest in working with live mosquitoes
• Motivation to learn new methods
• Fluent oral and written English
• We offer
• A 3-year Ph D position (65% TV-L E13) with strong mentoring and integration into a high-profile research network (CRC/Transregio 237)
• An interdisciplinary research environment at one of Germany’s top universities
• A highly collaborative research team
• Access to further education in university and non-university courses
• Integration into the Bonn International Graduate School (BIGS) Immunosciences and Infection
• Responsible and diverse: A position with plenty of room for creativity and responsibility within a supportive and collegial team
• Fair compensation: Pay according to the TV-L collective agreement, including annual bonus and company pension scheme
• Family-friendly flexibility: Flexible working time models, access to a place in our company daycare center, and programs supporting employees returning from parental leave
• Smart commuting: Excellent connection to the SWB public transport network
• Supported development: Individual training opportunities through courses, e-learning programs, and coaching sessions
• Structured onboarding: A systematic introduction to your new role and team
• Healthy at work: A wide range of health and wellness programs, plus free membership at the UKB fitness studio
• Employee benefits: Access to discounted offers for employees (corporate benefits)

We are committed to diversity and equal opportunities.

Our goal is to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are underrepresented and to particularly promote their careers.

We therefore urge relevantly qualified women to apply.

Applications are treated in accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act.

Applications from suitable people with proven severe disabilities and those of equal status are particularly welcome.

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