PhD Student Position Targeting Autoreactive Plasma Cells

About BioMed X

BioMed X is an independent research institute located on the campus of the University of Heidelberg in Germany. Together with our partners, we identify big biomedical research challenges and provide creative solutions by combining global crowdsourcing with local incubation of the world’s brightest early-career research talents. Each of the highly diverse research teams at BioMed X has access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and is continuously guided by experienced mentors from academia and industry. At BioMed X, we combine the best of two worlds - academia and industry - and enable breakthrough innovation by making biomedical research more efficient, more agile, and more fun.

About Team TAP

The objective of the group ‘New Strategies for Targeting Autoreactive Plasma Cells (TAP)’, led by Dr. Eleonora Melzi, is to uncover the mechanisms underlying the development and persistence of autoreactive plasma cells and their pathogenic autoantibodies. By employing a combination of state-of-the-art single-cell transcriptomic and high-throughput antibody analysis, we aim to identify new biomarkers of B cell autoreactivity. Ultimately, our goal is to define novel therapeutic strategies specifically targeting autoreactive plasma cells, thus advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of autoimmune diseases.

The Position

We are looking for a curious and creative PhD Student to join our team and broaden our think-tank with their intellectual power and technical excellence. The ideal candidate would have an MSc degree in Immunology, Molecular biology, Biotechnology or a related field and a strong interest in B cell and antibody responses in autoimmune neurological conditions.

Required skills

• Experience in cell culture and primary cell isolation
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, Western blotting)
• Familiarity with immunological methods such as flow cytometry, ELISA, ELISpot
• Basic knowledge of cell and tissue biology
• Ability to work independently and think critically.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent communication skills in English (oral and written)

Additional skills as an asset to the position

• Background in B cell immunology and antibody expression
• Experience with histology, confocal microscopy, or spatial transcriptomics
• Competency in single-cell data analysis

Candidates are requested to submit

• A one-page cover letter explaining your interest in joining our team
• Your CV highlighting scientific interests, research achievements, and a record of publications
• Two reference letters

What we offer

The post is offered initially for 3 years, with the possibility of extension.

• International, diverse, and positive work atmosphere, flexible working environment
• Competitive salary
• Access to training and lecture courses in house as well as in neighboring research institutions on the Life Science Campus in Heidelberg
• Access to a vast scientific network
• Job ticket, sponsored fitness contract, complimentary fresh fruit, soft drinks and chocolate, team recognition events, etc.

The position is immediately available and is sponsored by Servier. Please submit your application to the attention of Dr Eleonora Melzi before October 7th, 2024, via our online application system. Applicants will be interviewed on a rolling basis upon incoming applications.

At BioMed X we embrace diversity as we consider it the source of innovation. We are committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ideology, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, or disability.