Call for Applications

The new Research Training Group (RTG) "Elucidation of molecular mechanisms as foundation for an evidence-based complementary and integrative medicine" being set up at Heidelberg
University is offering

4 PhD Fellowships

for a period of 3 years (starting: 1^st October 2017, or later). The RTG is funded by the Landesgraduiertenförderung (LGF) of the Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts, Baden-Württemberg. About the RTG. The purpose of the interdisciplinary RTG is to unravel the molecular mechanisms mediating the effects of complementary medicine. The scientific projects within the RTG will be on plant active ingredients and photobiomodulation in respect to their effects on the immune system, tumor defense, regulation of the natural intestinal barrier and wound healing. The final goal is to obtain solid scientifically consolidated findings to critically evaluate methods of complementary medicine for future treatments of tumors or chronic inflammatory diseases. What we offer. The RTG provides talented and ambitious candidates with an excellent and stimulating research environment. The individual research projects are thematically closely related with partial methodological overlap to allow for intensive and inspiring scientific exchange. The PhD candidates will have access to state-of-the-art research technologies in modern cell and molecular biology (gene expression profiling, bioinformatics, flow cytometry, cell imaging, optical tissue clearing, animal models). The doctoral education further includes a well-structured training program and intensive supervision. The RTG is closely collaborating with the Graduate Academy and other international graduate programs at Heidelberg University. Furthermore, the RTG will be associated to national joint research projects in the field, for example the newly founded Academic Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine (AZKIM). What we expect. The successful candidate must hold a university degree (master or equivalent above average) that gives access to undertake doctoral studies. Further prerequisites are profound biomedical knowledge and in-depth education in cell and molecular biology and/or immunology. Moreover, very good English skills (spoken and written) are taken for granted. In addition, to conduct a superior doctorate successfully, it is essential to bring in a high degree of motivation as well as passion for science and for developing independent scientific ideas. Further information about the RTG can be found at our website: http://www.azkim.de/en/research/rtg. Applications (cover letter, CV, certificates, reference letters) should be sent latest by 15^th August 2017 either addressed to Prof. Dr. Yvonne Samstag, Institute of Immunology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 305, 69120 Heidelberg or sent by e-mail to yvonne.samstag@urz.uni-heidelberg.de. Phone: +49-6221-56 4039. Heidelberg University intends to increase the percentage of women in all fields where women are underrepresented. We are therefore asking qualified female candidates for their application. Handicapped candidates with comparable qualifications will be given preference.