Plasticity of Myeloid Cells

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 Roche.

What we are looking for

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

Plasticity of Myeloid Cells

Myeloid cells are capable of dynamically exerting diverse functions in the immune system, as well as in different tissues. This functional plasticity of macrophages, monocytes and dendritic cells is governed by integrating a wide array of signals from the local micro-environment to adequately respond to cellular damage or disrupted tissue homeostasis. In contrast, dysbalance of signals is thought to contribute to numerous immune-mediated diseases. So far, the integration of soluble and membrane-dependent signals, as well as epigenetic imprints shaping myeloid cell reactivity and plasticity is not well understood. In this project, Roche is seeking to

• identify key checkpoints and master switches governing functional adaptation of myeloid cells;
• delineate the functional consequences of these signals;
• establish assay systems to monitor functional alterations.

The main objective of the project is to harness myeloid cell plasticity to counteract pro-inflammatory differentiation and activation, and to restore homeostasis in immune-mediated diseases.

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 a term of three to four years.

The budget for the research group in the above-mentioned field includes a generous funding package covering salaries, 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 September 1, 2018.

Application & Selection Process

Applications are to be made online at apply.bio.mx.

Only applications received before April 29, 2018 will be considered. As part of the online application procedure, all group leader and postdoc candidates will be required to 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 July 6 to 10, 2018. 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.