Application deadline: 11/02/2025

The Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology of the University of Würzburg unites clinical diagnostics and cutting-edge research in infectious diseases with services in patient care.

The research group “Hospital Hygiene”, headed by Prof. Dr. Stefanie Kampmeier, focuses on the host-pathogen interactions and pathogen-specific factors used for the development of individualized, risk-adapted medicine for infection prevention in hospital settings. Our motivated team is inviting applications for the position of a Doctoral Researcher (PhD, f/m/d) at the interdisciplinary project investigating bacterial membrane vesicles in murine sepsis settings. The successful candidate will be responsible for investigating the mechanisms of endogenous translocation of enterococci, their membrane vesicles, and their influence on systemic inflammation in perioperative and intensive care contexts.
The project is integrated into the Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research (IZKF) of the Medical Faculty.

• Attractive salary according to TV-L including annual special payment: We value your work and reward you with a fair and competitive salary.
• Company pension scheme: We support your financial security in retirement.
• company sports programs: Our own gym and the Milon circuit help you stay fit and healthy. (Training hours: Mon-Fri 4:00 PM to 8:00 AM; Sat-Sun 24h.)
• Own company day-care center with extended opening hours (5:30 – 18:00): To help you better balance work and family.
• Extensive training and further education at our own academy: We promote your personal and professional development.
• A demanding, diverse and dynamic area of responsibility
• A good working atmosphere in a highly motivated and collegial team

• Bacteriological and cell culture methods such as isolation of bacterial membrane vesicles and translocation assays
• Particle analysis of membrane vesicles using FACS and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis
• Conduction of infection experiments in small rodent models (mice)
• Bioinformatic analysis of sequencing and FACS data
• Communication, presentation and publication of scientific results

• MSc in Biology, Biomedicine or a related field
• Experience in cell or molecular biology and a background in microbiology (work in a safety level 2 laboratory)
• Confidence, independence, and the ability to collaborate within a dynamic, motivated team.
• A high level of motivation, adaptability, and accountability.
• Strong communication skills in either German or English.
• Exceptional attention to detail and critical thinking skills.

The position is available immediately and initially limited to 3 years. Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees). The entire duration of the doctoral thesis is accompanied by professional and individual supervision. Our collaborative approach is further enhanced by regular dialogue within our multidisciplinary team, comprising doctors, scientists, students and technical assistants.

Complete applications in English or German should include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, a brief statement of research experiences, a list of two potential references, and a full academic record (copies of degree certificates).

• Training and Continuing Education
• Retirement Pension Plan
• Collegiality
• Sport and Fitness Options
• Employee Events
• Corporate Benefits

In the case of a university degree from a non-EU country, a long version of the certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education is required.

Remuneration is in accordance with the relevant collective agreements. Severely disabled applicants will be given preference if they are otherwise equally qualified.

The University Hospital of Würzburg (UKW) offers an innovative and excellent working environment in cutting-edge medicine. Here, employees benefit from state-of-the-art technology, extensive training and career opportunities as well as flexible working time models for an optimal work-life balance. We attach great importance to diversity and inclusion in order to create a respectful and supportive working environment. A strong sense of community and interdisciplinary collaboration are central to our way of working. Würzburg, a city with a high quality of life, offers a wide range of cultural and leisure activities as well as excellent educational opportunities. The UKW takes responsibility for the health of society and promotes an environment that focuses on ethical values and social commitment. Become part of our team and help shape the future of medicine.