The International Leibniz Research School (ILRS Jena) gives PhD students the possibility to prepare for their PhD exam in an ambitious program providing excellent research conditions.
We invite applications for a PhD Student Position (Ref.No. 12/2011)
Impact of microbial melanin on apoptosis of human host cells
Host cell death is a critical component in innate immunity and often determines the progression and outcome of an infection. The opportunistic human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus can either induce or inhibit host cell apoptosis dependent on its distinct morphological form and thereby manipulate the immune response. In a recent study, we showed that infection of alveolar macrophages (MH-S) with A. fumigatus conidia restrains apoptosis induced via the intrinsic and extrinsic pathway. We were able to demonstrate for the first time that the fungal melanin is the primary cause of the above host apoptosis inhibition (Cell Microbiol. 2011, 13(8): 1130-48). The dark-coloured pigment melanin is represented by different chemical types and found in many different species – from humans to microbes. It is well known that melanin protects these organisms e.g. against the damaging effects of UV radiation. However, in A. fumigatus it was shown that the DHN melanin present in this species pr
events apoptosis of different host immune effector cells to a certain extent. Aim of this project is to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of the inhibiting effects of melanin on apoptosis and also to investigate in a comparative study whether this is true for other melanin-containing pathogens.
We expect:
- a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Natural or Life Sciences. Research at ILRS is centred around “Microbial and Biomolecular Interactions”. Candidates about to earn their degree are welcome to apply.
- high motivation and interest to join one of the research areas of ILRS
- an integrative and cooperative personality
- very good communication skills in English
We offer:
- a top-level research environment
- efficient supervision by a team of supervisors
- a comprehensive mentoring program (cf. Program of Study)
- courses in state-of-the-art technologies and soft skills
- strong communication and interaction between the involved institutions
- Jena – City of Science: innovative business activities, successful scientific centres and a vibrant cultural scene around the famous Friedrich Schiller University
The three-year PhD position is available starting from March 2012. Salary will be paid according to TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees). HKI is an equal opportunity employer.
Further information:
Prof. Dr. Hans Peter Saluz, PI hanspeter.saluz@hki-jena.de
Prof. Dr. Axel Brakhage, PI
axel.brakhage@hki-jena.de
Dr. Christine Vogler, ILRS Coordinator ilrs@hki-jena.de
For the first step of the application procedure please acquaint yourself with the scientific projects offered on our website
and thoroughly fill in the “Statement of Interest” form downloadable from this site. The application procedure is handled online exclusively via the ILRS website. Applications in English including the completed “Statement of Interest”, curriculum vitae, copies of relevant certificates (MSc, BSc, etc.), and references should be submitted to:
Deadline for application: November 30, 2011.