Universität Witten/Herdecke
Witten/Herdecke University (UW/H) is Germany’s first privately funded university. It was founded in 1982 and has since established itself as a leading educational institution in Germany. Today, the university employs more than 900 staff members, and a total of 3,700 students are enrolled in the Faculties of Health Sciences and of Economics and Social Sciences in Witten.
Description of the position
The Chair of Virology and Microbiology at Witten/Herdecke University at the Faculty of Health is member of the Department of Human Medicine. The research focus of Virology and Microbiology is in the fields of gene therapy using viral vectors and basic virology. To strengthen our team, we are seeking a PhD student (f/m/d) to join the Chair of Virology and Microbiology, starting September 1, 2026. The position (50%) is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and is initially limited to 2 years and can be extended to fulfil the PhD training.
Your Research project
This PhD project aims to advance our understanding of human adenovirus (HAdV) biology and develop next-generation viral vectors for gene therapy. Using our unique collection of more than 40 recombinant HAdV types and advanced viral engineering tools, the project will investigate how adenoviruses interact with blood and endothelial cells to better understand viral persistence, dissemination, and vector safety.
Another objective of this project is to evaluate a directed evolution (ADEVO) platform based on peptide-display libraries to identify fiber-modified adenoviruses with enhanced binding and uptake in target cells. Selected candidates will be converted into replication-deficient vectors and evaluated in primary 2D and 3D cell culture models.
The project combines molecular virology, viral vector engineering, and advanced cell culture systems, contributing to the development of safer and more effective gene therapy approaches.
Your Profile
- The successful applicant should hold a master/diploma degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine or related subjects
- Solid theoretical and practical knowledge in molecular and cell biology
- Basic knowledge of virology and bacteriology
- You are a team player, demonstrate initiative, and you are known for your structured and reliable work style
- Solid computer skills
- 30 days of annual leave and additional days off (December 24–31 and three additional days off are also provided)
- Work-life balance
- direct access to medical care
- Reimbursement of childcare costs up to 200 euros per month (depending on salary level and the child’s age)
- A comprehensive continuing education program
- Support for eco-friendly mobility (bike leasing, electric car rentals, etc.)
Contact
If this opportunity aligns with your goals, please apply by July 21, 2026, exclusively online, including the standard application documents and your proposed start date.
We look forward to receiving your application.
Prof. Dr. Anja Ehrhardt
Chair of Virology and Microbiology
If you have any questions, please contact the office at 02303/926-272 or -273.
Concept of diversity
We explicitly live and promote the idea of diversity (www.uni-wh.de/diversity). We value the skills and special characteristics that our members contribute and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity. We actively strive to increase the proportion of women among our academic staff
Die UW/H als Arbeitgeberin
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