Research Assistant, Scientific Doctoral Candidate (m/f/d)

About the Role

We are offering a fully funded doctoral position at 65% of TV-L E13 within the research group led by Dr. Lukas Weiß, part of the Collaborative Research Centre SFB 1525. This project focuses on understanding the intricate interactions between platelets and immune cells, blood vessels, and coagulation following myocardial infarction. The goal is to elucidate their influence on thrombo-inflammatory processes, microvascular damage, and cardiac inflammation.

This position uniquely combines patient-centered research with mechanistic investigations using murine myocardial infarction models. Successful candidates will join an excellent, internationally recognized research environment equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure. You will benefit from established patient cohorts, preclinical models, close supervision, and integration into the SFB1525 and the Graduate School of Life Sciences. The research group maintains strong collaborations with leading partners at the Würzburg site, including the Würzburg Platelet Group (led by Prof. Bernhard Nieswandt), the German Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, and the medical clinics of the University Hospital Würzburg.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the interplay of platelets with immune cells and vascular structures in the context of myocardial infarction.
• Analyze blood and sample materials from patient cohorts and murine models of myocardial infarction.
• Utilize techniques such as flow cytometry, high-resolution confocal and dSTORM microscopy, molecular biology and biochemical methods (PCR, Western Blot, ELISA), and in vitro cell culture models.
• Contribute to the establishment and execution of preclinical and translational experimental approaches.
• Present research findings within the working group, the SFB 1525, and at national and international conferences.
• Actively participate in the preparation of scientific publications.

Requirements

• Completed university degree (e.g., Master's, Diploma, State Examination, or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedicine, Molecular Medicine, Human Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, or a related life science field.
• Demonstrated strong interest in platelet biology, immunology, and cardiovascular research.
• Willingness to engage with experimental myocardial infarction models and work with human sample material; a FELASA B certificate is advantageous.
• We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a keen interest in experimental and translational cardiovascular research.

Perks

• A challenging, diverse, and developmental role.
• Attractive remuneration according to TV-L, including an annual special payment.
• Opportunities for training and further education through our in-house academy.
• Company pension scheme.
• On-site childcare facility with extended opening hours.
• Company sports programs.
• Flexible working hours with a flextime arrangement.
• Job bike leasing option.
• Employee discount programs.

Additional Information

For university degrees obtained outside the EU, an official long-form certificate evaluation from the Central Agency for Foreign Education (ZAB) is required.

Remuneration will be in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are otherwise equally qualified.