PhD Student Position: The Role of an Epstein-Barr Virus Infection in the Development of Multiple Sclerosis

„Research for a life without cancer“ is our mission at the German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts – whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.

The Division of Pathogenesis of Virus Associated Tumors is offering a PhD Student Position: The Role of an Epstein-Barr Virus Infection in the Development of Multiple Sclerosis.

Reference number: 2024-0318

The Research Group of Prof. Dr. Henri-Jacques Delecluse (Division of Pathogenesis of Virus Associated Tumors) is looking for a creative and highly skilled PhD student to study the role of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS) as soon as possible.

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes multiple types of malignant tumors in humans. However, a recent large epidemiological study has demonstrated that EBV infection also constitutes the strongest single risk factor to date for the development of multiple sclerosis (MS) (Bjornevik et al., Science, 2022). MS is the most frequent demyelinating disease, mainly affects young adults and leads to progressive neurodegeneration and disability. How EBV is involved in the pathogenesis of MS, remains disputed.

Our research group coordinates a joint international research effort, the BEHIND-MS consortium, that is funded by HORIZON Europe and consists of ten multidisciplinary research groups from various EU countries. PhD candidates will benefit from interactions with the vibrant research community involved in the BEHIND-MS consortium and at the DKFZ. The DKFZ has state-of-the-art core facilities in all areas of biology, including genomics, proteomics, imaging and immunology.

We are looking for creative and highly committed applicants with a strong interest in biomedical research.

The project will involve characterization of interactions between the virus, the immune system and the central nervous system. Methodological approaches include manipulation of infected cells, reprogrammed neural cells, and the immune system, particularly T cells specific for viral antigens. Our group collaborates with the “Chronically progressive neurodegenerative diseases" research group (PI: Marc Thier) at the DKFZ, that will reprogram immune cells into neural progenitors and derive neural cultures and organoids.

• Master’s degree in biology, medicine, biochemistry or related disciplines
• Previous experience in common molecular and cellular biology techniques, competence in bioinformatics is an asset
• Excellent command of written and oral English, with a proof of language proficiency (IELTS >6.5 or TOEFL>90) A proof of language proficiency is not required for those coming from German-speaking countries (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), as well as native English speakers from Australia, Canada, Ireland, UK and USA.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Applications should include contact details of two referees.

• Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and oppor­tunities for inter­national networking at the highest level
• Access to international research networks
• Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of part-time work
• Family-friendly working environ­ment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
• Our Corporate Health Manage­ment Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being