PhD in Mosquito Immunobiology, Artificial Light at Night, and West Nile Virus Transmission Bernhard-Nocht-Institut fuer Tropenmedizin in Germany

We are looking for a PhD student to join an interdisciplinary project on mosquito biology, mosquito immunity, vector-borne diseases, and West Nile virus transmission. The project examines how artificial light at night (ALAN) and temperature influence diapause, behaviour, gene regulation, immune responses, and the transmission potential of the native mosquito Culex pipiens.

The successful candidate will be embedded in two complementary research environments: the Mosquito-Virus Interactions team at the Bernhard-Nocht-Institut fuer Tropenmedizin in Hamburg, led by Prof Dr Esther Schnettler, and the Vector Immunobiology team at the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut in Greifswald, led by Mine Altinli. The project is part of the interdisciplinary LUMEN research network funded by the One Health Platform, with opportunities to interact with researchers in ecology, modelling, and the social sciences.

Research themes include arbovirology, immune regulation, RNA interference, environmental modulation of mosquito-virus interactions, and One Health approaches to reducing pathogen transmission. The work combines laboratory experiments and field validation, linking molecular mechanisms with ecological processes and integrated risk assessment.

Eligibility highlights include a Master’s degree or equivalent in life sciences, a solid background in molecular biology and handling viruses and/or mosquitoes, strong interest in vector-borne viruses, excellent teamwork and communication skills, proficiency in English, and an independent, creative, motivated working style.

The position is initially limited to 3 years and is remunerated with 65% EG 13 TV-AVH. The post offers comprehensive training, access to state-of-the-art high-containment laboratories and insectaries, structured supervision, and a collaborative international environment.

Application deadline: 5 July 2026. Apply via the online form linked in the post, or submit by postal mail referring to PhD_MVI. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV, certificates, and two references.