At the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), we are committed to excellence in research, education, and comprehensive healthcare across our clinics. Every day, our team of approximately 16,100 dedicated employees works to make the world a healthier place. Our goal is to be one of the leading university hospitals while also being the best employer in our industry.
At UKE, we believe that meaningful and successful work should align with our employees' personal needs and individual lifestyles. Just as diverse as these needs are, so too is the variety of personalized solutions we offer.
Welcome to the UKE.
PhD (all genders) for Immunology
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Job-ID:
J000005311
Contract Type:
Temporary
Employment Type:
Part time
Closing Date:
17.11.2025
Organization:
UKE_Zentrum für Operative Medizin
Category:
Research & Science
Main tasks
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At the Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology (HCTI) within the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), we are actively seeking highly motivated doctoral candidates with a robust background in immunology as part of the Institute of Inflammation and Carcinogenesis (UKE - HCTI - Startseite)
Our research focus centers on investigating the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms of T cell biology. Specifically, we explore how T cells adapt to environmental changes and ultimately contribute to either mediating physiological responses or engaging in pathological tissue-damaging processes (Vesely et al., Cell (2019), Zhao Yu et al., Science Immunology (2021), Tintelnot J. et al., Nature (2023), Siracusa F. et al., Nature Imm. (2023), and Liebold I. et al Science (2024)). We follow a circular research approach that begins with a unique collection of human samples and multi-omics analyses, proceeds to mechanistic studies in mice, and returns to validation in humans — including clinical trials — to generate clinically relevant insights (Tintelnot J. et al., Nature 2023; Siracusa F. et al., Nature Immunology 2023)
In the years ahead, we aim to delve deeply into the complex interactions between environmental factors and the immune system. In particular, we would like to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive the response of intestinal and extra-intestinal CD4+ T cells to different type of diets in promoting protective, tolerogenic responses or pathogenic, pro-inflammatory reactions, directly or indirectly via modulating the bio-availability of microbial metabolites. One focus in this context is also the feto-maternal cellular adaptation to dietary interventions, as these processes can critically influence both maternal health and offspring development. Studying such mechanisms will provide valuable insights for developing improved treatments and advancing personalized nutrition and medicine.
The laboratory of Nicola Gagliani is funded by DFG and ERC, providing a unique opportunity for fellows to access a combination of state-of-the-art techniques and multiomics human and mouse data to answer key biological questions.
This position (65%) is initially limited until 29.3.2029 for project-related reasons.
Your Profile
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Completed academic studies in biology, biochemistry, human biology, medicine or related subjects
We are looking for candidates who have expertise and commitment to experimental immunology
Immunity status
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Please note that employment is contingent upon proof of immunization or immunity against the measles virus, in accordance with applicable legal and medical requirements. Documentation (e.g., vaccination certificate) must be provided before employment begins.
Our Offer
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International and multidisciplinary environment at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, a leading institution in Europe (Germany)
Access to several sophisticated mouse models and to next generation sequencing platforms (e.g. 10X ) and the possibility to learn state of the art aspects of Bioinformatics analysis
Access to the institution's soft skills program, including training in presenting skills and scientific writing, as well as career-oriented courses
Mentoring focused on building the best possible career within and outside academia
Weekly scientific exchange through lab meetings and journal clubs
Opportunity to collaborate with research groups at the University of Yale (USA) and the Karolinska Institute (Sweden)
Attractive compensation according to
TVöD/VKA
Secure employment with meaningful work and respectful collaboration
Comprehensive onboarding and open knowledge exchange within the team
Extensive training and further education programs at our
UKE Academy for Education and Careers
Opportunities to contribute to our “UKE INside” personnel policy through cross-professional and cross-hierarchical projects
Sustainable travel: subsidies for the Deutschlandticket as a job ticket, and Dr. Bike bicycle service
Family-friendly working environment: cooperation on childcare, free vacation childcare, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
Excellent health, wellness, and sports programs
A wide range of dining options in our staff restaurant, with additional choices available at the “Health Kitchen” cafés, bistros, and an on-site supermarket
Contact
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Contact to the department
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Dana Klatt
d.klatt@uke.de
Recruiting contact
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Recruiting Team
+49 (0) 40 7410-52599
About us
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We live diversity and value variety
We offer a work environment that provides equal opportunities regardless of age, gender, sexual identity, disability, ethnic and social origin, or religion. This is confirmed by our accession to the Charter of Diversity. We explicitly aim to increase the proportion of women in management positions, especially among scientific personnel in research and teaching. Women with equal qualifications will be given priority. The same applies in the case of under-representation of one gender in the advertised area. Persons with severe disabilities with equal aptitude, competence, and professional performance will be given priority.