The Krey lab at the Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, is seeking a motivated PhD student to join a collaborative project focused on the structural and biochemical study of viral glycoproteins, neutralizing antibodies, and vaccine development. The research is embedded in a partnership with Ludwig Maximilian University Munich and is funded by the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF). The project aims to develop next-generation vaccines against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) by investigating the vaccine potential of HCMV and MCMV glycoproteins and evaluating the clinical potential of HCMV-glycoprotein-specific monoclonal antibodies.

Research in the Krey lab centers on viruses of global public health and veterinary concern, utilizing advanced structural biology and biophysical techniques, with a special focus on X-ray crystallography and cryo electron microscopy. The results are intended to inform structure-based design of antivirals and vaccines, offering direct translational potential. The successful candidate will be involved in the production and characterization of novel recombinant CMV glycoprotein immunogens, multivalent display for vaccine candidate generation, and the study of human monoclonal antibodies targeting HCMV glycoproteins. Methods include AI-based immunogen design, protein biochemistry, biophysics, and structural biology.

Applicants should have a Master's degree in natural sciences (preferably biochemistry, life sciences, chemistry, or biology) and experience in protein biochemistry. Desirable skills include glycoprotein expression, protein purification, and structural biology techniques such as X-ray crystallography or cryo electron microscopy. The position offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment, with opportunities to present at international conferences and participate in innovative research.

The position is 65% part-time (25.16 hours/week), limited until 31.01.2029, and remunerated according to the TV-L pay scale (EG 13), including annual special payment, 30 days' holiday, flexible working hours, public transport ticket, university sports, discounted canteen meals, health management program, and a company pension scheme. The University of Lübeck is committed to diversity and gender equality, and encourages applications from all backgrounds.

To apply, submit your application by 14.12.2025 using the university's online application form. For further information, contact Prof. Thomas Krey at [email protected].