About us:

The Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology is devoted to research into the mechanisms and treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and related diseases. Our institute combines reseach at the biomedical center (BMC) with taking care for patients at the Klinikum Großhadern. This infrastructure is ideally suited for joining basic research with clinically relevant issues.

Background and project: Inflammatory diseases of the CNS comprise a spectrum of disorders amongst which MS is the most frequent one. These diseases are due to misguided autoreactive immune cells that attack the own nervous system and induce chronic inflammation. We aim to (1) explore the autoimmunity against known target antigens and identify novel targets of autoimmune responses to stratify patients, (2) recognize mechanisms of actions of immunomodulatory drugs applied to patients with MS and related disorders. This specific project aims at understanding the role of B cells and plasma cells in neuroinflammation and will be performed in the BMC in the lab of Prof. Dr. Edgar Meinl.

We are looking for you:

PhD position in the Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology (m/f/x)

in Planegg-Martinsried

Your tasks and responsibilities:

• Culture and FACS analysis of human immune cells
• Apply cellular, molecular and biochemical techniques to study details of antigen recognition and effector functions of autoantibodies
• Engage in data analysis and collaborate with computational scientists.

Your qualifications:

• MSc or equivalent degree in Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry or a related discipline. Alternative: MD with a strong interest in basic research
• Enthusiasm for joining basic research with clinically relevant issues
• Experience with FACS, immune cell culture, molecular biology techniques and bioinformatics is advantageous
• Strong communication skills and fluency in English (spoken and written).

Benefits:

• Fully funded PhD positions with competitive salaries according to TV-L scale.
• Integration into the LMU Graduate Program, providing structured career development and training.
• Access to cutting-edge core facilities (on-site) in genomics, proteomics, imaging, and computational biology.
• Close supervision and mentorship to support scientific and career development.
• Financial support for conference participation and workshops.
• A stimulating and interdisciplinary research environment at the BMC, LMU Munich, part of the HighTech Campus, home to leading research institutes and fostering collaboration and access to top-tier facilities.
• Work in a highly international, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research setting.
• Many opportunities to help shape our BMC initiatives (e.g. BMC Green Lab, Public Outreach and BMC working group diversity and inclusion)
• Compatibility of family and science (e.g. parent room and kindergarten on campus, school holiday and emergency child care)
• Numerous LMU employee benefits, e.g. discounted fitness and cultural offers, job public transport ticket, Jobbike as well as several canteens and excellent cafés on campus
• Annual special payment, 30 days of vacation and additional pension scheme

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The promotion of diversity is an important strategic goal at BMC. This is reflected in the BMC Code of Conduct, which actively promotes diversity and equal opportunities.

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People with disabilities who are equally as qualified as other applicants will receive preferential treatment.

Contact:

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF file (max. 5 MB) containing:

• Curriculum Vitae (PDF file, max. two pages, written in English).
• Short description of research projects carried out during your studies (e.g., MSc thesis). Please describe the rationale and goals of the research, and highlight your contributions to the results (approx. 300 words).
• Description of your general research interests (approx. 200 words).
• What do you find interesting about our research group and topics? (approx. 200 words).
• Transcript (record of study) and degree certificate for all completed degrees. Please also include any supplementary information provided by the university, if available.
• Temporary/provisional transcripts for any ongoing degree programs.
• Contact details for at least two referees, including at least one direct supervisor who has worked with you for at least six months.

Important dates
Application deadline: 30/05/2025
Start date: Flexible, between July and September 2025
Contact & Submission: Please send applications to edgar.meinl@med.uni-muenchen.de with the subject “Application for PhD Position”.
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