Doctoral Researcher for the Bioimaging Group
Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany · Full Time
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- Salary
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- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 2 weeks ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Education
- Master's degree
- Eligibility
- Candidates with a completed Master’s, diploma, or equivalent degree in a natural science field—preferably biology, medical biology, or a similar area—may apply. The role is aimed at applicants with immunology knowledge, practical microscopy experience, willingness to work with animals, teamwork abi…
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Where you'll work
Job description
About the institute
The Leibniz Institute for Analytical Sciences (ISAS) in Dortmund develops analytical approaches for health research. Its work supports better prevention, earlier diagnosis, and improved treatment for conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. The institute aims to advance personalized therapy by bringing together expertise from biology, chemistry, computer science, medicine, pharmacology, and physics. ISAS is part of the Leibniz Association and is publicly funded by the Federal Republic of Germany and its states.
About the role
The Bioimaging group is seeking a doctoral researcher for a DFG-funded project within the SFB TRR-332 “Neutrophils: Origin, Fate, and Function.” The project focuses on understanding how different neutrophil populations influence macrophages during the course of rheumatoid arthritis. In the inflammatory setting of RA, neutrophils migrate into specific anatomical niches in the joint, such as the synovial space and synovial fat tissue, where they undergo distinct forms of cell death including apoptosis and NETosis. To investigate the cellular origin, differentiation, and disease-related contribution of these neutrophil populations, the project uses advanced methods such as light-sheet fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, and intravital two-photon microscopy, combined with flow cytometry and transcriptomic analysis.
Responsibilities
- Designing and carrying out experiments independently
- Creating staining workflows and planning sample preparation strategies
- Organizing sample exchange with collaborating partners
- Preparing human and mouse samples for light-sheet fluorescence microscopy
- Performing confocal microscopy and intravital two-photon microscopy
- Preparing specimens for histological analysis
- Processing and interpreting data
Requirements
- A Master’s, diploma, or comparable degree in a natural science field is required, preferably in biology, medical biology, or a related discipline
- Solid knowledge of immunology is required, ideally with reference to neutrophils and macrophages
- Hands-on experience with fluorescence microscopy techniques, such as confocal laser scanning microscopy and light-sheet fluorescence microscopy
- Practical experience in preparing fluorescent biological samples
- Confident use of Microsoft Office applications such as Excel and PowerPoint, as well as image processing tools like ImageJ and Imaris
- Willingness to work with animal experiments
- Strong interest in interdisciplinary scientific work, plus teamwork skills, openness, commitment, and very good written and spoken English
What the institute offers
The role comes with a clearly defined research topic, broad training, and dedicated doctoral supervision at ISAS and within the Leibniz Association. The institute offers continuing education and development opportunities in an international setting, along with an excellent working atmosphere in a highly dynamic and professional team. You will have access to extensive, state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure for a wide range of analytical methods. The position also provides the opportunity to present results at international conferences and take part in workshops, as well as flexible working hours, mobile work options, and attractive social benefits. Family-friendly infrastructure and support from a family service are also included.
Terms and conditions
The position is available immediately as a 65% part-time role and is fixed-term until 30 June 2030. Compensation follows TV-L and the role is classified in pay grade 13. The contract duration is governed by the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG).
Additional information
Women will be given priority in case of equal qualification, aptitude, and professional performance, provided women are underrepresented in the relevant organizational unit and there are no overriding reasons in the person of another applicant. Applications from qualified candidates with severe disabilities or equivalent status are expressly welcomed.
Application information
The application deadline is 1 August 2026. Applicants are asked to apply through the institute’s application portal. For questions, please use reference number 403_2026 and contact the HR team at bewerbungen@isas.de. Further information about the institute is available on its website.