The Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Germany’s largest academic research institution dedicated to infection biology, has opened applications for 16 fully funded PhD positions across six locations under its “CURIOSITY IS INFECTIOUS” initiative. The initiative aims to support early-stage researchers in addressing pressing global health challenges through interdisciplinary and innovative research approaches.
16 PhD Candidates for Challenges in Infection Research
Key Information Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Institution | Helmholtz-Zentrum für Infektionsforschung GmbH (HZI) |
| Advertisement No. | 718 |
| Designation | PhD Candidate (f/m/d) |
| Number of Positions | 16 |
| Research Focus | Life Sciences & Challenges in Infection Research |
| Contract Type / Term | Fixed-term (Initially 3 years), suitable for part-time |
| Remuneration | Equivalent to E 13 TVöD Bund (65%) |
| Locations | Braunschweig, Saarbrücken, Greifswald, Würzburg, Hannover (Germany) |
| Application Deadline | September 11, 2026 |
Designation
- PhD Candidate (f/m/d)
Research Area
- Infection Research and Life SciencesProjects encompass interdisciplinary areas combating infectious diseases, utilizing advanced infrastructures such as Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) facilities, an AI-enabled robotized organoid platform, and systems/structural infection biology.
Location
Successful candidates will carry out their doctoral research at one of the HZI network sites across Germany:
- Braunschweig (Main Campus / BRICS)
- Saarbrücken (HIPS)
- Greifswald (HIOH)
- Würzburg (HIRI)
- Hannover (TWINCORE / CiiM / CRC)
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
- Educational Background: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Life Sciences or a closely related field.
- Mindset: An ambitious, curious, and innovative mindset.
- Language & Communication: Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
- Collaboration: Willingness and aptitude to collaborate within an international and intercultural team.
Scholarship / Position Description & Benefits
Appointees are hired under the German public sector collective agreement (TVöD Bund):
- Remuneration & Social Benefits: German federal pay scale equivalent to E 13 TVöD Bund (65%), providing a secure income covering living expenses in Germany.
- Health & Leave: Comprehensive statutory health insurance, social security benefits, and 30 days of paid annual vacation.
- Research Infrastructure: Access to top-tier laboratories, advanced technologies, and an extensive international collaboration network.
- Professional Support: Integration into the DO IT – PhD initiative, flexible working hours, access to the Family Office for work-life balance, and subsidies for the national public transit job ticket (Jobticket).
- Inclusion: Applications from individuals with severe disabilities will be given preference in cases of equal suitability.
How to Apply
- Submit your application directly through the official HZI Career Portal by clicking “Apply now”.
- Upload the required academic transcripts, CV, and motivational statement.
- Note: In accordance with modern DEI hiring practices, applicants are requested to refrain from including a photograph in their application documents.
- For inquiries regarding the positions, contact the recruitment office at:
JobsHZI@helmholtz-hzi.de.
Last Date to Apply
- September 11, 2026 (Closing date)
