PhD student (m/f/d) 65% in Cardiovascular Biology

The University Hospital Bonn (UKB) is one of Germany's leading university hospitals, combining top-level performance in medicine and research with excellence in teaching. Each year, more than half a million patients receive inpatient and outpatient care at the UKB. Around 3,500 students study medicine and dentistry here, and over 600 people are trained annually in healthcare professions. With approximately 9,900 employees, the UKB is the third-largest employer in the Bonn/Rhein-Sieg region. In the Focus hospital ranking, the UKB ranks first among university hospitals in North Rhine-Westphalia and second nationwide in terms of case mix index (case severity). In 2024, the UKB raised nearly €100 million in third-party funding for research, development, and teaching. The F.A.Z. Institute has named the UKB “Germany's Training Champion” and “Germany's Most Attractive Employer” for the fourth consecutive year.

The following part-time (25,025 h/week) position is to be filled as soon as possible in the Heart Center Bonn – Department of Internal Medicine II of the University Hospital Bonn:

PhD student (m/f/d) 65% in Cardiovascular Biology

The contract is initially limited to 3 years.

Our research focuses on bacterial and sterile inflammation-driven cardiovascular disorders, particularly calcific aortic valve stenosis and infective endocarditis. By integrating state-of-the-art in vivo models, primary human cell assays, and advanced multi-omics of human patient tissues, this project aims to elucidate the role IL-1–independent role of extracellular ASC specks (eASC) as persistent inflammatory drivers in human cardiovascular disease.
The project is funded by the DFG (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft) and benefits from the network of the DFG-funded Transregional Collaborative Research Center TRR259 “Aortic Disease,” which unites groups at the Universities of Bonn, Cologne, and Düsseldorf. Through its integrated graduate program, the candidate will have access to specialized workshops, seminars, and mentoring in cardiovascular biology. Close collaboration with Prof. Bernardo Franklin and Prof. Florian Schmidt from the Institute of Innate Immunity, who pioneered the development of ASC nanobodies.

• Conduct in vivo experiments (murine echocardiography, histology, immune profiling)
• Perform advanced in vitro studies with primary human cells and ex vivo analyses using human patient tissue
• Execute high-throughput omics including bulk and single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics
• Conceive and develop new protocols and methods
• Present and discuss research results at relevant national and international conferences
• Contribute to manuscript writing

• Master's degree (M.Sc.) or equivalent in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or related field
• Hands-on experience in molecular biology, biochemistry and cell culture or small animal models
• Interest in and/or experience with small animal models
• Strong analytical skills, independent working style, and attention to detail
• Excellent teamwork, oral and written communication skills in English; German proficiency is advantageous, but not necessary

• 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 13 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 and the option of an interest-free loan for the purchase of an e-bike
• 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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