PhD students in Vaccination-Induced B Cell Immunity Against Lassa Virus University of Basel in Switzerland

The Department of Biomedicine (DBM) at the University of Basel, in partnership with University Hospitals Basel, is a leading center for biomedical research, hosting over 67 research groups and more than 800 employees. The DBM fosters a collaborative, international environment that drives innovation and excellence in understanding health and disease. The Experimental Virology group, led by Professor Daniel Pinschewer, is recruiting two PhD students to join a project focused on vaccination-induced B cell immunity against Lassa virus (LASV).

Lassa virus is endemic in West Africa and responsible for thousands of cases of fatal hemorrhagic fever annually. Despite its impact, a clinically approved vaccine is not yet available. This research aims to advance the understanding of protective memory B cell immunity, specifically how it can be elicited by genetic vaccine technologies and how it mediates protection against high-level viremia. The project leverages cutting-edge immunological and virological methods, including innovative molecular vaccine design, B cell repertoire analyses (single cell cloning and next-generation single-cell sequencing), and somatic gene therapy-based perturbation experiments in mice.

The group benefits from strong extramural funding provided by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and the European Union, as well as generous core funding and infrastructure support from the University of Basel. The research environment is enriched by the city of Basel's status as a European hotspot for infection biology, with world-class research institutions and major biopharmaceutical companies nearby.

Applicants should possess basic knowledge in immunology. Prior experience in immunological or virological research and/or molecular biological approaches is advantageous. The ideal candidate will be curious, hard-working, socially skilled, and passionate about research, with eagerness to learn and a strong desire to make fundamental discoveries. Applications must include a CV, motivation letter, and names and contact details of at least two referees.

To apply, submit your documents via the online recruiting tool before the deadline of July 3, 2026. For further information, consult the provided references and application link.