SCIENCE-JOBS-DE

PhD student positions "Dynamic events in HIV-1 replication and innate sensing" (Heidelberg)

The Department of Infectious Diseases, Virology at the University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany offers positions for PhD students working on Dynamic events in HIV-1 replication and innate sensing in the groups of Prof. Dr. Hans-Georg Kräusslich and Prof. Dr. Barbara Müller.

The interaction of human immunodeficiency virus with its host cell involves numerous highly dynamic steps that are difficult or impossible to investigate by classical approaches. Therefore, our collaborating groups apply advanced fluorescence imaging techniques to study dynamic events in the HIV-1 replication cycle. In one project, we specifically focus on HIV-1 morphological maturation, which is essential to prepare the virus for entry into a new host cell. Another project centers on the post-entry stages of retroviral replication targeting the enigmatic events between cytosolic entry and delivery of the genome into the host cell nucleus, with a particular focus on cellular DNA sensing and viral countermeasures. Both processes are complex and require tight regulation in space and time; post-entry events are further influenced by numerous host cell restriction and dependency factors. There are many open questions (including surprisingly basic ones) for example “When and ho!
 w is HIV maturation initiated?”, or “How are viral genomes shielded from DNA sensors and delivered to the nucleus?”

To answer these questions, we combine a wide range of virological, cell biological and biochemical methods with advanced fluorescence labeling and light and electron microscopy imaging techniques. Work with infectious virus under BSL3 conditions is possible, but not essential.

We offer interesting, interdisciplinary research topics with biomedical relevance in an interactive scientific environment, including collaborations with national and international partners, at an internationally competitive level.

Applicants should have a Master degree (biology, biochemistry, possibly biophysics or molecular medicine) and should be interested in addressing basic questions in virology using different methods. A good background in standard molecular biological methods is expected. We are specifically looking for candidates with a background in cell biology, fluorescence imaging and image analysis, biochemistry, or biophysics.

We are looking forward to meet candidates motivated by true scientific curiosity, who enjoy working independently, but also love to interact, discuss and collaborate with scientists from different disciplines and nations. Successful candidates have the possibility to apply for the HBIGS International Graduate School to fully benefit from the excellent scientific training of this program.

Positions are open immediately; deadline for applications is May 31, 2016.

Please address your applications including CV, summary of academic records, and letters of recommendation or contact details of potential referees (preferably as a single pdf file) to: Doris.Heidmann@med.uni-heidelberg.de


Prof. Dr. Barbara Müller
barbara_mueller@med.uni-heidelberg.de
University Hospital Heidelberg
Heidelberg