• We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student interested in cardiovascular immunology, multi-omics, advanced imaging, and disease models.
• Prior experience in these areas is not required.
• Our research focuses on myocardial infarction, thromboinflammation, atherosclerosis, and sepsis (e.g. Immunity 2025, 2023; Nature Medicine 2024; Science Advances 2024; Nature Reviews Cardiology 2025).
• We study the innate immune system and its interactions with non-immune cells, including sympathetic nerve fibers, using reverse-translational approaches from human samples to in vitro and in vivo disease models.
• The PhD project will focus on one of these topics and include training in omics, imaging, and bioinformatic analyses within a highly interdisciplinary team of biologists, biochemists, veterinarians, physicians, and bioinformaticians.

Ideal candidates should demonstrate:

• Strong motivation for scientific research and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary teamwork
• Interest in innate immunity, cardiovascular disease, and/or systems biology
• Critical thinking skills and the ability to work independently
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken)
• Basic understanding of molecular and cellular biology concepts
• Willingness to learn advanced experimental and computational approaches

Prior experience in areas such as immunology, omics technologies, bioinformatics, imaging, or animal models is advantageous but not required, as comprehensive training will be provided.

• An exciting and innovative PhD project at the interface of cardiovascular biology, immunology, and translational medicine
• A highly interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment with expertise spanning immunology, omics, imaging, bioinformatics, and disease modeling
• Training in state-of-the-art technologies, including single-cell and spatial omics, advanced imaging, computational analysis, and in vivo/in vitro disease models
• Access to human patient material and clinically relevant reverse-translational research approaches
• Close supervision and mentorship within an international and supportive team of biologists, physicians, veterinarians, and computational scientists
• Opportunities to contribute to high-impact research and scientific publications
• Participation in international conferences, seminars, and scientific networking activities
• Strong support for scientific and professional career development
• A stimulating, inclusive, and dynamic working atmosphere
• Remuneration is based on the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Länder (TV-L) including all allowances customary in the public sector.

Mr. Dr. med. Pekayvaz, Kami Alexander