Summary
The Department of Medicine, Institute of Virology at the Philipps-Universität Marburg (Germany) is inviting applications for a Research Assistant / PhD Candidate position in the research group led by Dr. Alexandra Kupke. The project focuses on studying the cellular and tissue-specific mechanisms determining the neurotropism and pathogenesis of henipaviruses (such as Nipah virus) in the central nervous system. The position offers funding under the TV-H E 13 (65%) salary scale for a duration of 3 years.
PhD Research Position / Scholarship in Virology at University of Marburg
Key Details
| Parameter | Details |
| Position / Designation | Research Assistant with the aim of a PhD (Wissenschaftliche/r Mitarbeiter/in) |
| Reference Number | fb20-0146-wmz-2026 |
| Host Institution | Philipps-Universität Marburg (Department of Medicine, Institute of Virology) |
| Research Group | Dr. Alexandra Kupke |
| Location | Marburg, Hesse, Germany |
| Duration | 3 Years (Fixed-term, compliant with WissZeitVG) |
| Working Hours / Volume | Part-time (65% of regular working hours) |
| Remuneration / Salary | TV-H E 13 (65%) (Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the State of Hesse) |
| Starting Date | As soon as possible |
| Application Deadline | September 20, 2026 |
Designation
Research Assistant with the aim of a PhD (Doctoral Candidate)
Research Area
- Field: Virology, Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, and Immunology
- Focus: Investigating the neurotropism and pathogenesis of highly pathogenic Henipaviruses (Nipah virus vs. closely related apathogenic viruses) in the central nervous system, identifying viral entry routes, and evaluating innate immune responses using in vitro and ex vivo neuronal models (barrier models, organotypic brain slices) under BSL-2 and BSL-4 conditions.
Location
Marburg, Hesse, Germany (Institute of Virology, Philipps-Universität Marburg)
Eligibility / Qualification
- Academic Degree: Master’s degree, Diploma, or equivalent in Human Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, or a closely related discipline.
- Core Competencies: Practical experience in molecular biology, cell biology, and virological methods.
- Advantageous Skills:
- Experience with the generation of primary (murine) cell and tissue models.
- Prior background/knowledge in histology and neurobiology.
- Attributes: High motivation, conscientiousness, ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team, and strong willingness to complete a doctoral thesis in virology.
Scholarship / Position Description
Key Responsibilities
- Establish and optimize neuronal ex vivo and in vitro models (e.g., organotypic brain slices, barrier systems).
- Perform virological, immunological, and molecular biology experiments under BSL-2 and BSL-4 safety containment levels.
- Autonomously plan, conduct, and interpret experimental assays.
- Present research findings at national/international scientific conferences and write peer-reviewed scientific publications and the doctoral dissertation.
Benefits & Offerings
- Competitive salary and social benefits according to the German public service scale (TV-H E 13, 65%).
- Free public transit pass throughout the State of Hesse (Landesticket Hessen).
- Structured PhD support and training via the Marburg Research Academy (MARA), International Office, and Higher Education Didactics Office.
- Occupational pension scheme (VBL) and flexible working hours.
How to Apply
- Prepare your application documents (curriculum vitae, academic transcripts/certificates, motivation letter, and references).
- Submit your application online through the official portal:University of Marburg Job Portal
- For project-related queries, contact:
- Contact Person: Dr. Alexandra Kupke
- Email:
kupke@staff.uni-marburg.de - Phone: +49 6421-28 65182
Last Date to Apply
September 20, 2026
