Pathogen-Mediated Modulation of Innate Immunity

About BioMed X

The BioMed X Innovation Center is an exciting new collaboration model at the interface between academia and industry. At our center, distinguished early career scientists recruited from all over the world are working jointly on novel pre-clinical research projects in the fields of biomedicine, molecular biology, cell biology, diagnostics, and consumer care. These interdisciplinary project teams are conducting groundbreaking biomedical research in an open innovation lab facility on the campus of the University of Heidelberg, Germany. They are working under the guidance of experienced mentors from academia and industry while expanding their scientific network and receiving entrepreneurship and leadership training. Each BioMed X project team is sponsored by an industry partner: The sponsor of this call for application is Boehringer Ingelheim.

What we are looking for

Applications are welcome from early career scientists with an outstanding track record in the field of:

Pathogen-Mediated Modulation of Innate Immunity

Preliminary evidence suggests that pathogenic microorganisms can exploit functional innate immunity networks of the host to aid immune evasion, and that de-regulation of those same networks might contribute to pathology in chronic inflammatory diseases. Boehringer Ingelheim is interested in identifying key molecular and cellular mechanisms at the pathogen-host interface which could be exploited as potential targets for the treatment of multiple chronic inflammatory diseases. As part of the application process, research project proposals are requested that explore the complex pathogen-host interaction within human tissues, including intestinal and/or respiratory barrier tissues, with a focus on innate immunity mechanisms. Original, unprecedented ideas and unique experimental approaches that cross conceptional borders and include novel in vitro and in vivo models are particularly encouraged.

Group leader positions are intended to suit candidates with typically between four and eight years of postdoctoral experience who would like to develop themselves towards a leadership career path either in academia or industry. Candidates for postdoctoral positions are expected to have several years of research experience and a certain degree of specialization in one or more relevant cutting-edge technologies.

What we offer

The posts are offered for an initial term of two years, with the possibility of prolongation for up to two additional years, and an option for a permanent position. As part of the research group in the above mentioned field the posts include a generous funding package covering personal salary, consumables, services, travels, as well as access to the core facilities of neighboring research institutions and biotechnology companies in Heidelberg.

There is flexibility over starting dates, but successful applicants are welcome to take up post starting August 1, 2017.

Application & Selection Process

Applications are to be made via the online application system on this website.

Only applications received before April 2, 2017 will be considered. As part of the online application procedure candidates will be required to enter detailed information about their previous work and submit a competitive project proposal.

After a first selection round, candidates will be invited to a five-day innovation boot camp in Heidelberg. The invitation includes full coverage of travel expenses, accommodation, sightseeing, and food for the entire workshop which will take place from June 10 to 14, 2017. With guidance of experienced mentors, candidates will jointly work on their project proposals and present them in front of a jury on the final day. Successful candidates will be offered a position at the BioMed X Innovation Center.