PhD Candidate (m/f/d)

The Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften – ISAS – e. V. develops efficient analytical methods for health research. Thus, it contributes to the improvement of the prevention, early diagnosis, and therapy of diseases like cardiovascular diseases or cancer. Overall, the institute strives to advance precision medicine by combining knowledge from different fields such as biology, chemistry, computer science, medicine, pharmacology, and physics. ISAS is a member of the Leibniz Association and is publicly funded by the Federal Republic of Germany and its federal states. 

As part of the DFG-funded Research Training Group ‘GRK 2989: Targeting Cellular Interfaces in Reperfused Acute Myocardial Infarction (TCI repAMI)’, we invite applications for the subproject ‘P2: targeting cardiac macrophages’ at our Dortmund location within the Bioimaging Working Group (Biospectroscopy Department):

PhD Candidate (m/f/d)

The doctoral research project investigates the role of tissue-resident and inflammation-recruited macrophage subpopulations in their acute response to reperfusion injury following myocardial infarction. The study employs various imaging modalities, including confocal laser scanning microscopy and light sheet fluorescence microscopy, alongside flow cytometric and mass spectrometric analyses, to examine the recruitment and polarization mechanisms within distinct inflammatory niches.

You will be responsible for

• Planning and independent execution of experiments
• Establishment of new methods and sample preparation strategies
• Preparation of human and murine samples
• Coordination of co-operation projects
• Independent data processing and analysis
• Publishing on the research topic, preparation of contributions for reports and presentations
• Other administrative tasks

Your profile

• Master’s, diploma or equivalent degree in natural sciences, preferably in biology or biochemistry; experience in the field of immunology is desirable
• Practical experience with fluorescence microscopy methods (confocal laser scanning microscopy, microscopy, light sheet fluorescence microscopy) and flow cytometry is an advantage
• Confident handling of Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and image processing software (e.g. ImageJ, Imaris)
• Willingness to perform animal experiments; experience and FELASA B certificate are desirable
• Willingness for interdisciplinary scientific work, ability to work in a team, open-mindedness, commitment are required
• Very good knowledge of German for the exchange with project partners and the public, as well as good written and spoken English skills are essential

We offer

• A clear research topic as well as multifold training and support for PhD students in framework of ISAS and the Leibniz association
• Training and scientific development opportunities in an international environment and an excellent working atmosphere in a very dynamic and professional team
• Extensive state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure in various analytical methods
• The opportunity to present your data on international conferences and participate in workshops
• A wide range of opportunities for further training and qualifications
• Flexible working times, mobile working and attractive social benefits
• Support in finding balance between work and family life (including finding childcare facilities, advice on caring for relatives) through a family service
• Workplace health promotion and support for participation in TU Dortmund University sports activities

Non-residents who apply for this job will receive help from the institute to find accommodation and to handle authorities. Applications from disabled applicants are welcome. ISAS supports the principle of equal opportunity for all employees and therefore particularly encourages women to apply.

The part-time position (65%) is offered for three years. The position is available immediately. The salary will be according to the German TV-L. The time limitation of the contract is based on the Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz (WissZeitVG).

ISAS collects and processes the personal data of its applicants in accordance with European and German legal regulations. Further information on data protection and the processing of personal data can be found at: https://www.isas.de/en/datenschutz.

The closing date for applications is February 2, 2026. Please apply via our applicant portal. If you have any questions (reference number 385_2025), feel free to contact the Human Resources team (bewerbungen@isas.de). Further information about the institute can be found at: https://www.isas.de/en.