Doktorand / PhD Student (gn*) Molecular Virology and Cell Biology

Our research focuses on investigating host-pathogen interactions with a strong emphasis on cell biological mechanisms. Viruses as simple, obligatory, intracellular parasites depend on the host cell for their life cycle. For initial infection and cell entry, viruses hijack cellular processes such as signaling, membrane trafficking, intra- and intercellular transport, nuclear import and export, and mitosis. Following viruses, thus, provides a unique opportunity to analyze these cellular mechanisms. Hence, our research on virus-host interactions of small DNA tumor viruses during cell entry in the Schelhaas laboratory focusses as much on the understanding of the basic cellular biology as it does help to fight viral diseases (for recent insights into our work please refer to Brinkert et al., EMBO Rep., 2025, Bano et al., Sci. Adv., 2024, Feng et al., Nat. Commun. 2024, Rizzato et al., 2024). Using cellular and molecular techniques in combination with super-resolution microscopy, systems biology approaches, and advanced imaging techniques in live cells, organoids, and organisms, the laboratory continues to identify and elucidate basic mechanisms of tumor virus infections in cells. Moreover, making exciting new strides into uncharted territories, we investigate how cell differentiation, pre-existing immune conditions, superinfections, aging, etc. affect the infection outcome using model systems that mimic such conditions.

The successful applicant will thus join an exciting research program in a motivating working group to investigate the molecular mechanisms on how small DNA tumor viruses infect cells and how cell niche influences infection and its outcome.

What we expect:

• MSc or similar degree in Cell Biology/Virology or similar
• Strong background in cell biology or virology
• Commitment to research, and motivation for interdisciplinary work
• Good communication skills and proficiency in English

The following qualifications are considered an asset:

• Strong background in (live cell) microscopy
• Experience with superresolution microscopy, computational image analysis
• Experience in working with complex cell cultures (epithelial models, organoids)
• Existing publication record

What we offer:

• An international and motivating working environment
• Research laboratories with cutting-edge and state-of-the-art equipment
• Excellent possibilities for career development

BENEFITS

Exciting Projects

Professional Development and Training

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Part of Research Innovation

• Exciting Projects
• Professional Development and Training
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration
• Part of Research Innovation
• Additional Benefits

(*gn=gender neutral)

The University Hospital of Münster is one of the leading hospitals in Germany. Such a position cannot be achieved by size and medical successes alone. The individual commitment counts above all. We need your commitment so that even with little things we can achieve great things for our patients. There are many possibilities open for you so that you may develop with them.

Questions about how to apply? Click here
Equal opportunities are a part of our Human Resources Policy. UKM supports the compatibility of work and family life and is certified as "Family-friendly Company" since 2010. Applications of women are specifically invited. In the case of similar qualifications, competence, and specific achievements, women will be considered on preferential terms within the framework of the legal possibilities. Handicapped candidates with equivalent qualifications will be given preference. Due to legal requirements working with us is only permitted with complete vaccination against measles.