PhD Position in Mycology and Immunology at Universitätsklinikum Erlangen

About the Role

The Molecular Mycology research team led by Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Sven Krappmann at the Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Hospital Erlangen, invites applications for a PhD position focusing on Aspergillus fumigatus interactions with eosinophils in allergic lung inflammation models.

This group investigates fungal virulence factors with an emphasis on Aspergillus fumigatus, an environmental mold responsible for diseases including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). The project is closely executed with the Infection Biology Department under Prof. David Vöhringer, exploring eosinophilic granulocytes roles in ABPA and fungal pathology. The research employs immunology, microbiology, and molecular infection biology techniques.

Research Tasks

• Identify transcription factors modulating fungal gene expression during eosinophil interaction.
• Examine the importance of extracellular proteolysis in these interactions.

Methods Utilized

• Flow cytometry for cell analysis.
• Cytokine quantification via ELISA and similar assays.
• RNA sequencing for transcriptome profiling.
• Production of recombinant fungal strains.
• Genetic and phenotypic characterization of Aspergillus fumigatus mutants.

Candidate Requirements

• Deep curiosity for fungal immunology research.
• Strong commitment to collaborative scientific work.
• Proficiency with key experimental procedures such as cell culture.
• Ability to conduct interdisciplinary and independent research.
• Solid understanding of immunology principles.

Preferred Qualifications

• Practical experience in fungal biology methods.
• Familiarity with working on filamentous fungi.

Application Instructions

Applications should include a motivation letter, a scientific CV detailing relevant skills, recommendation letters, and certified copies of academic records (high school diploma, Bachelor's and Master's transcripts).

Position Details and Benefits

• Employment contract for up to 36 months funded by DFG with pay according to German TV-L scale.
• Engaging PhD project situated at the interface of Mycology and Immunology.
• Access to a vibrant research environment within the Microbiological Institute.
• Participation in the Life@FAU Graduate School's structured PhD education program.
• Option to affiliate with the DFG-supported ImmunoMicroTope Research Training Group 2740.
• Comprehensive induction and supportive academic team.

Workplace and Additional Information

The University Hospital Erlangen ranks among Germany's top hospitals and the largest employers in Middle Franconia with over 10,000 dedicated professionals delivering advanced medical care and research.

We value every staff member’s contribution to maintaining cutting-edge medicine and outstanding patient care. Working here offers meaningful, socially valuable work anchored in leading medical science.

Employment follows a collective bargaining agreement with associated benefits.

References

• Dietschmann et al. (2022) mBio 13:e0123922.
• Adam et al. (2025) Int J Med Microbiol 318:151641.
• Graf et al. (2026) bioRxiv doi:10.64898/2025.12.02.691763.