Biomedical Research

The Department of Histology and Embryology at the University of Rijeka, Croatia, is offering two new fully funded PhD positions in the fields of immunology, metabolic disease, and neuroimmunology. The department is recognized for its world-class research, with publications in top journals and a vibrant team of young researchers. One position, supervised by Prof. Bojan Polić, focuses on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its impact on immune response to infection, using advanced mouse models and molecular biology techniques. The second position, supervised by Doc. Marko Šestan, is part of an ERC Starting Grant project investigating how behavioral conditioning and environmental cues can modulate immune function, bridging neuroimmunology, behavioral science, and advanced imaging. Both positions offer access to state-of-the-art facilities, mentorship, and career development in a dynamic, international research environment. Applicants should be motivated, interested in experimental and interdisciplinary research, and ideally have prior lab experience. The application deadline is September 30, 2025, with a preferred start date in early 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the provided link or contact the department directly.