About Research Position

The International Max Planck Research School for Infectious Diseases and Immunology (IMPRS-IDI) is pleased to announce up to seven fully funded PhD positions. We invite ambitious and talented individuals from all nationalities and backgrounds to join our interdisciplinary research environment at the forefront of infectious disease and immunology research.

Successful candidates will conduct cutting-edge research within a stimulating scientific network, including Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Technische Universität Berlin.

Available Research Projects

1. Innate Immune Recognition in Gastrointestinal Epithelium
   (Bartfeld lab) – Leveraging organoids as host models to study immune responses.
2. Transcriptional Rewiring in Mycobacterial Granuloma Formation
   (Cronan lab) – Decoding mechanisms behind granuloma formation.
3. Innate Lymphoid Cells, IL-22, and Liver Regeneration
   (Diefenbach lab) – Investigating the role of innate lymphoid cells in liver health.
4. Infectious Disease Epidemiology
   (Domenech de Cellès lab) – Estimating the true burden of pertussis infections using innovative evidence synthesis.
5. Plasmodium falciparum Cytoadhesion in Seasonal Malaria
   (Portugal lab) – Exploring cytoadhesion mechanisms in malaria transmission areas.
6. Microtubules in Plasmodium Morphology and Mechanics
   (Reber lab) – Studying microtubule roles across the Plasmodium life cycle.
7. Cytoskeletal Mechanics in Neutrophil Antimicrobial Responses
   (Reber lab) – Understanding how cytoskeletal dynamics regulate neutrophil activity.

What We Offer

• Cutting-edge research opportunities: Access state-of-the-art facilities for advanced research in fields like microbiology, parasitology, biophysics, and more.
• World-class training: Participate in a structured graduate program with a customized curriculum including technical courses, scientific lectures, and professional skills workshops.
• Collaborative environment: Join a thriving, international PhD community and engage with leading researchers in your field.
• Financial support: Fully funded PhD positions with travel allowances to present your work at conferences.
• Prime location: Study in Berlin, a global hub for science, culture, and innovation.

Eligibility Criteria

We seek candidates who are:

• Motivated and passionate about research in infectious diseases, immunology, or related disciplines.
• Holders of an excellent M.Sc. degree (or equivalent) in biological sciences, biochemistry, biophysics, epidemiology, or a related field (degree completion required before the project start date).
• Candidates with strong quantitative skills are encouraged to apply for specific projects.
• Collaborative, creative, and dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through our application platform by January 3, 2025.

Required Documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic and research experience.
2. Motivation Letter: Explaining your interest in IMPRS-IDI and chosen projects.
3. Academic Transcripts: For completed degrees (or interim transcripts if degree is pending).
4. Two Reference Letters: To be submitted by referees through the application portal.
5. English Proficiency Proof (if applicable): Required for non-native English speakers.

For further details, visit our official website: IMPRS-IDI