The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Leibniz-HKI) in Germany is offering a fully funded PhD position as part of the International Leibniz Research School (ILRS 2.0). The project, titled "A novel role of human p11-dependent EGFR in regulating phagosome maturation and antifungal defence," focuses on understanding how the human protein p11 (S100A10) and EGFR regulate phagosome maturation in immune cells, impacting antifungal responses. The research integrates advanced cell biology, immunology, infection biology, and signal transduction to study host–pathogen interactions at the molecular level. Supervision is provided by Dr. Leijie Jia, Prof. Axel Brakhage, Dr. Franziska Schmidt, and Prof. Marc Thilo Figge, all affiliated with Leibniz-HKI. The successful candidate will join the Research Group Phagosome Biology and Engineering and benefit from a highly interdisciplinary and international research environment, with access to cutting-edge facilities and structured doctoral training through ILRS 2.0. The program collaborates closely with Friedrich Schiller University Jena and the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, offering a vibrant scientific network and a broad selection of methods courses and transferable skills workshops. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in cell biology, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, or related fields. Those about to complete their degree are also welcome to apply. Required skills include a strong experimental background in cell culture, molecular biology, microbiology, and/or biochemistry. Experience with mouse experiments is a plus. Candidates must be able to work in an international, interdisciplinary team and have excellent English communication skills. The position is fully funded for four years, with salary according to the German TV-L scale for public service employees. The application deadline is December 13, 2025. Applications should be submitted in English via the Leibniz-HKI online application system and must include a cover letter, CV, transcript/certificate, and addresses of three referees. Selected candidates will be invited to a recruitment meeting in Jena in early 2026. For more information about the ILRS 2.0 program and the application process, visit the provided links. The Leibniz-HKI is committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in infection biology, cell biology, immunology, and host-pathogen interactions, seeking to advance their research skills in a top-tier international doctoral program.

The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute in Germany is offering a fully funded PhD position as part of the International Leibniz Research School (ILRS 2.0). The project, titled 'Extracellular vesicles as a key defense mechanism against Aspergillus fumigatus,' focuses on understanding how neutrophil-derived extracellular vesicles target and defend against Aspergillus fumigatus, the most common airborne fungal pathogen. The research will explore the mechanisms of antifungal activity, define subpopulations of extracellular vesicles, and investigate their specificity and translational potential as therapeutic agents. Supervised by Professor Axel Brakhage and Dr. Matthew Blango, the successful candidate will join the Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology and work within a vibrant, interdisciplinary scientific network. The program offers access to state-of-the-art microscopy, image analysis, and cutting-edge research facilities. The position is fully funded for four years, with salary paid according to the German TV-L agreement for public service employees. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biological sciences, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, or related fields. Candidates nearing completion of their degree are also encouraged to apply. A strong experimental background in molecular biology, microbiology, and/or biochemistry is required, and experience with cell culture, microscopy, and image analysis is advantageous. The ability to work in an international, interdisciplinary team and excellent English communication skills are essential. The application deadline is December 13, 2025. Applications must be submitted in English via the Leibniz-HKI online application system and should include a cover letter, CV, certificate of study/transcript of records, and the addresses of three referees. Selected candidates will be invited to a recruitment meeting in Jena in early 2026. For more information, visit the ILRS 2.0 program page or contact Christine Vogler at [email protected]. Keywords: immunology, cell biology, infection biology, extracellular vesicles, Aspergillus fumigatus, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, antifungal therapy.