Job Description

for four years.

Project title: Extracellular vesicles as a key defense mechanism against

Aspergillus fumigatus


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Research Area:

Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common airborne fungal pathogen. Inhaled spores encounter various host cells in the lung, with neutrophils playing a critical role in the defense against A. fumigatus. Neutrophil-derived extracellular vesicles have been shown to be a novel and particularly effective antifungal defense mechanism. The project aims to decipher the mechanisms of antifungal activity of extracellular vesicles derived from neutrophils but also other cell types, define their subpopulations, their specificity and investigate their translational potential as therapeutic agents.


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Required Qualifications:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biological sciences, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, or related disciplines. Candidates about to obtain their degree are welcome to apply. Strong experimental background in molecular biology, microbiology, and/or biochemistry. Experience with cell culture, microscopy and image analysis is a plus. The candidate should be willing and able to work in an international, interdisciplinary research team. Very good communication skills in English.
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We offer:

Cutting edge research facilities and world-renowned faculty A highly communicative atmosphere within an energetic and interdisciplinary scientific network Integration into the structured and interdisciplinary doctoral training program ILRS 2.0 Jena – City of Science, a young and lively city with a vibrant local cultural agenda Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees).
The successful candidate will be hosted in the

Department Molecular and Applied Microbiology

and jointly supervised by

Prof. Dr. Axel Brakhage

and

Dr. Matthew Blango

. The Leibniz-HKI is embedded in the outstanding scientific environment of the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups.


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Further information:

For more information about ILRS2.0, please click here.

Christine Vogler | christine.vogler@leibniz-hki.de


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Applications:

Leibniz-HKI is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law, will receive consideration for employment.



Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, a CV, a certificate of study/transcript of records, the addresses of three possible referees, and should be submitted The deadline for applications is

December 13, 2025

. Selected candidates will be invited to a recruitment meeting in Jena in early 2026 for personal interviews.







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