Research Assistant (m/f/d) - 'Targeting Autoreactive Plasma Cells’

About BioMed X

BioMed X is an independent research institute located in 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 team 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 Research Assistant to join our team and collaborate in developing our research platform. The ideal candidate would have:

• MSc degree in Molecular biology, Biotechnology or a related field and a strong interest in B cell and antibody responses in autoimmune neurological conditions.
• Experience in cell culture and primary cell isolation.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, Western blotting, cloning).
• Familiarity with immunological methods such as flow cytometry, ELISA and ELISpot.
• Sound knowledge of cell and tissue biology.
• Ability to work independently and think critically.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary teams.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Good to have, to standout for the position

• Background in B cell immunology.
• Experience with protein expression and purification.
• Competency in single-cell sequencing.

You are requested to submit

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

What we offer

• The position is offered initially for three years with the possibility of extension.
• International, diverse, and positive work atmosphere with flexible working environment.
• A competitive salary.
• Access to training and lecture courses in house as well as in neighboring research institutions in 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 sponsored by SERVIER and is immediately available.

Please submit your application to the attention of Dr Eleonora Melzi by January 31st, 2025, via our online application system: https://career.bio.mx/job/2024-BMX-J10

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.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions : spal@bio.mx or melzi@bio.mx

To read about us, please visit : https://bio.mx/