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Friedrich Schiller University Jena

Doctoral Researcher in Infection Biology, Microbial Immunology and Candida albicans Colonization Resistance Friedrich Schiller University Jena in Germany

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Immunology

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Aug 20, 2026

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Country

Germany

University

Friedrich Schiller University Jena

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Keywords

Immunology
Biochemistry
Microbiology
Biology
Medical Science
Pathogen Biology
Microbiome Research
Mouse Model
Dietary Fiber
Metabolomic

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About this position

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena and the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Leibniz-HKI), within the Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC) and the Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, invite applications for a Doctoral Researcher (TV-L E13, 65%) in Infection Biology.

This PhD project sits at the intersection of microbiology, immunology, infection biology, microbiome research, metabolomics, and host-pathogen interactions. The experimental work investigates how dietary fiber influences microbiota composition and metabolism, and how these changes affect colonization by the human-pathogenic fungus Candida albicans. The successful candidate will work with established mouse models, perform in vivo and in vitro experiments, and combine these with metabolome and microbiome analyses to identify relevant fiber types, bacterial taxa, and mechanisms of diet-related colonization resistance.

The position is based at the Leibniz-HKI in Jena, Germany, and is offered as a fixed-term 3-year doctoral position. Funding is provided through the JSMC via the Thuringian State government for 2026–2028 and subsequently through the Excellence Strategy of the German Federal and State governments. The role is part-time at 65% and remuneration follows TV-L E13, including a special annual payment.

Applicants should hold an MSc in Microbiology, Infection Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field (medicine/veterinary medicine also accepted), or be in the final stage of completing such a degree. Essential experience in microbiology methods is required; experience with metabolomics/microbiome analysis or laboratory animals is an advantage. The group also values willingness to learn basic computational methods, curiosity, self-motivation, attention to detail, teamwork, and excellent English communication skills.

The JSMC offers a structured doctoral training environment, mentoring, soft-skills courses, and an interdisciplinary scientific network. The broader environment at Jena is presented as a vibrant city of science with strong research collaborations and a collaborative team culture.

Application deadline: 20 August 2026. Apply through the online portal on the job advertisement page.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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