PhD Student Position on Lipid Immunometabolism and Immune Cell Interactions (UNLIMITED, MSCA Doctoral Network) University of Padova in Italy

The University of Padova invites applications for a PhD student position within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN) project “UNderstanding Lipid ImmunoMetabolIsm To trEat Disease” (UNLIMITED). This interdisciplinary research opportunity focuses on elucidating how cell–cell interactions shape immune function, integrating physical contact analysis with metabolic and transcriptional profiling at single-cell resolution. The project leverages advanced technologies such as LIPSTIC, uLIPSTIC, SCENITH, and CLICK-Uptake assays to track immune cell interactions and characterize their immunometabolic states, particularly in dendritic cell–T cell interactions relevant to vaccination and cancer.

As part of the UNLIMITED consortium, the successful candidate will join a network of 15 beneficiaries across Europe, including both academic and non-academic partners. The research themes span innovative tools for single-cell and spatial analysis, molecular pathways linking lipid metabolism to immune activation, tissue-specific metabolic regulation, and discovery of therapeutic targets within lipid metabolism. The project aims to generate mechanistic insights into the lipid–immune interface, advancing precision immunotherapy and health innovation.

The position offers a 36-month full-time contract, starting as early as August 2026, with funding provided by the Horizon Europe Programme. The salary and benefits are in accordance with MSCA regulations, and the program includes secondments at other consortium partners, as well as a rich training program covering scientific, technical, transferable, and entrepreneurial skills. The University of Padova provides a dynamic research environment with state-of-the-art facilities, including NGS platforms, high biosafety containment animal facilities, and advanced flow cytometry and imaging resources.

Eligibility criteria require candidates to have a Master’s degree in a relevant field and not already possess a doctoral degree. Applicants must comply with the MSCA mobility rule, meaning they must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Italy for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment. Excellent English language skills are essential. Required application documents include the UNLIMITED application form (downloadable from the project website), CV, cover letter, reference letters, transcripts, and any additional certificates. Official translations are needed for documents not in English.

Applications must be submitted as a single PDF file in English via the UNLIMITED project webpage, quoting the reference ‘Application UNLIMITED DC – [Your Name]’, by 15 March 2026. Only complete applications will be considered. The selection process includes shortlisting based on fit to the research project, followed by interviews (on-site or online). The University of Padova is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.

For further information, visit the project website or contact Dr. Giulia Pasqual ([email protected]). This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in lipid immunometabolism and to receive interdisciplinary training in a collaborative European network.