PhD student (m/f/d) – University of Lübeck

The University of Lübeck stands for excellent research and teaching. We are a modern foundation university with thematically focused study courses. Under the motto “Focus on life”, as a life science university we offer a spectrum of programs ranging from medicine, health sciences and psychology to mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology.

The Institute of Biochemistry (Director: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Thomas Krey) at the University of Lübeck has an opening in the Krey lab for a position as 

PhD student (m/f/d) 

with a working time of 65 % of the regular weekly hours (currently 25.16 hours per week), limited until January 31, 2029.

The working group of Prof. Krey is interested in the study of viruses that constitute a global public health and/or veterinary concern. Structural biology and biophysical techniques are used with a special focus on X-ray crystallography and cryo electron microscopy. The results of these analyses can be used for structure-based design of antivirals and/or vaccines, with a direct translational potential.

The position is embedded in a collaborative project with the Ludwig Maximilian University Munich aimed at developing next-generation vaccines against human cytomegalovirus. The joint project is funded by the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF). The aim of the project is to investigate the vaccine potential of HCMV and MCMV glycoproteins and to evaluate the clinical potential of HCMV-glycoprotein-specific monoclonal antibodies.

Tasks:

• Production of novel recombinant CMV glycoprotein immunogens
• Biophysical, biochemical and structural characterization of CMV glycoprotein immunogens
• Multivalent display of these immunogens in the context of the generation of a next-generation vaccine candidate
• Characterization of a panel of human monoclonal antibodies targeting HCMV glycoproteins
• Methods: AI-based immunogen design, protein biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology

Requirements:

• Master's degree in natural sciences, preferably biochemistry, life sciences, chemistry, or biology
• Experience in practical and theoretical protein biochemistry
• Enthusiasm to work both independently in an interdisciplinary field and an international team
• Interest in participating in international conferences and presentation of own results
• Creativity and enthusiasm to search for innovative solutions
• Experience with glycoprotein expression is desirable, but not absolutely required
• Experience in protein purification and structural biology techniques (preferably X-ray crystallography or cryo electron microscopy) are desirable

What we offer:

• Collectively agreed remuneration, including annual special payment (TV-L)
• 30 days' holiday per year, plus 24.12. and 31.12. off work
• Compatibility of family, private life and career through flexible working hours and part-time options (after individual assessment) as well as the possibility of mobile working
• NAH.SH / Deutschland public transport ticket, participation in university sports, discounted canteen meals on campus and other corporate benefits
• Health management program “Healthy University”
• A company pension scheme with high additional payments by the employer (VBL)
• A secure job and a university environment with its typically lively and innovative character, with numerous events and further training opportunities

Classification will be in accordance with the automatic pay scale if the requirements of the pay scale are met up to the pay group listed above. A final job evaluation remains reserved.

The University of Lübeck is a modern and cosmopolitan employer. We welcome your application regardless of your age, gender, cultural and social background, religion, worldview, disability or sexual identity. We promote gender equality. In case of equal suitability, qualifications and professional performance, female applicants will be given preference. If you are an applicant with a severe disability, your application will be given preference in case of equal suitability.

Have we aroused your interest?
Then send us your application until December 14, 2025, using our online application form.

Contact for further questions:

Mr. Prof. Dr. Thomas Krey
Tel.: +49 451 / 3101 3100
Send an email

Click here for the full job description