PhD in Epithelial Mechanobiology
PhD in Epithelial Mechanobiology
Position Details
Registration number: fb20-0102-wmz-2026
Entry date: as soon as possible
Application deadline: 2026-07-19
Salary: E 13 TV-H
Duration: 3 years
Volume of employment: 65%
About the Institute
The Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pharmacology, research group of Prof. Dr. Thomas Worzfeld, is currently accepting applications for a PhD in Epithelial Mechanobiology. The Institute of Pharmacology focuses on deciphering the molecular mechanisms that control intercellular communication, inflammation and regeneration in epithelial tissues.
Project Description
The PhD project is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) as part of the Transregional Collaborative Research Centre 425 "Desmosomal dysfunction in epithelial barriers" (DEFINE). The position is available to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the molecular regulation of desmosomes, a type of junctional complex that provides mechanical stability to epithelial tissues. Desmosome dysfunction plays a pivotal role in pemphigus, a severe autoimmune skin disorder. The project will address the role of plexins, a family of transmembrane receptors, in desmosome function in health and disease.
Applied Techniques
- Biochemical methods (e.g. protein crosslinking, affinity purification, mass spectrometry)
- Cellular and molecular biology methods (e.g. cultures of primary keratinocytes, skin organoids)
- Mechanobiology methods
- Advanced imaging
- Analyses of preclinical mouse models of pemphigus (e.g. FACS, histology)
Tasks
- To actively pursue the DFG-funded project with the aim of characterizing the molecular mechanisms underlying the plexin-mediated control of desmosome function and evaluating plexins as potential therapeutic targets in pemphigus
- To contribute to the preparation of scientific publications and presentations
Requirements
- M.Sc. degree or equivalent in a Life Sciences subject
- High motivation, team spirit and creativity
- Very good written and spoken English skills
- Experience in biochemical methods, cellular and molecular biology, mechanobiology, advanced imaging, animal experiments and histology would be advantageous
- Disposition to own scientific qualification is expected
We Offer
- Dynamic scientific environment in an international and motivated team
- Campus with modern state-of-the-art infrastructure
- Access to international research networks
- Dedicated and structured supervision
- Comprehensive training and mentoring program
- Free use of public transportation in Hessen ("state ticket")
- Professional development support through Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office and the Higher Education Didactics Office
Additional Information
The position is limited to a time period deemed adequate for the completion of a doctoral degree. The limitation complies with Section 2 (1) of the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG).
We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. As a certified family-friendly university, we support our employees in balancing family and career. A reduction of working time is possible. Applicants with a disability as described in the Social Security Code (Section 2(2) and (3) of Book IX of the Social Security Code (SGB IX)) will be preferred in case of equal qualifications.
Application and interview costs can not be refunded.
Contact
Prof. Dr. Thomas Worzfeld
+49 6421-28 65001
worzfeld@uni-marburg.de
Application Deadline
Please apply by 19th July 2026 using the application button below.