PhD position

MicroThera is a new working group in the field of Clinical Microbiome Research at the Fraunhofer-Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP in Frankfurt (Main). This group encompasses a research platform focused on the development of microbiota-based therapies. We are interested in the interplay between commensal microbiota opportunistic pathogenic microorganisms and the host in health and disease.  Our focus is to establish both preclinical validation models for Microbiota-based therapeutics, conduct clinical trials and use clinical datasets to develop prediction models for complex microbial communities and their interactions with potential interventions. Currently, we are seeking a PhD candidate  to support our interdisciplinary team.   Be part of change You will conduct a project focusing on developing culture-based engraftment assays in the context of clinical research projects and explore their predictive potential for the outcome of microbiota-based therapies. Methods include co-cultivation and spike-in assays with fecal microbiota and potential beneficial microorganisms. The experiments will be embedded in clinical trials enabling you to gain experience in coordination of clinical research projects with a clear translational focus.   What you contribute A completed Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biotechnology, (molecular) biology, microbiology or a comparable field High degree of independence, initiative, and self-organization, as the position is embedded in a small, collaborative research team where autonomous work and ownership of projects are essential. Practical experience in molecular biological methods, microbiology and cell cultivationmethods, sterile work and, optimally, handling of complex communities. Understanding of sequencing-based microbiome analysis methods (e.g., 16S rRNA gene sequencing, metagenomics) and associated laboratory procedures Interest in the human microbiome and clinical research Experience in project and data management is an advantage Proficiency in standard software (e.g. text processing, statistics) and skills in handling, processing and analysis of large datasets or the interest in acquiring these skills. Strong scientific writing and communication in English, good knowledge of German (or willingness to learn and speak German) is preferred   What we offer Involvement in a highly innovative and patient-relevant topic High degree of creative freedom and room for own ideas in the project implementation Integration into a competent, friendly and committed team within an excellent research campus A collegial work atmosphere and the freedom to implement your own ideas Flexible working hours in the flexitime model, remote work options, as well as various support measures to balance private life and career Excellent professional and personal development opportunities through a variety of internal training programs 30 days of vacation entitlement as well as Christmas and New Year’s Eve as non-working days Personal retirement benefits (VBL) and additional (social) benefits of public service, such as annual special payment Capital-forming benefits Subsidies for the Germany ticket (Deutschlandticket) Corporate benefits: Offers from well-known manufacturers and brands Access to the extensive Fraunhofer network   Remuneration is based on TVöD EG 13 (65% position). The weekly working time is 39 hours. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD). With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.  Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.    If you have any questions, please contact: Priv.-Doz. Dr. med. Lena M. Biehl +4969269525212 Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP    Requisition Number: 82410                Application Deadline: