Doctoral Candidate (PhD student) position (m/w/d)

Doctoral Candidate 5 (DC5): In vivo analysis and diagnostic profiling of biofilm-associated medical device infections.

The department of Trauma Surgery seeks a highly motivated PhD candidate for a fully funded, international doctoral position within the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks (MSCA-DN) project iSTRIDE (inter-Sectoral Training for Research on the Pathology and Prevention of Indwelling Device Associated infEctions). iSTRIDE brings together a consortium of leading academic and industrial partners to tackle pressing issues related to Indwelling Device Associated Infections (IDAIs). iSTRIDE integrates six hospitals, one research institute, seven academic universities, and two industrial partners, with profound expertise in microbiology, materials science, and diagnostic technology. The overall objective of the project is to deeper the understanding of different types of IDAIs and develop smart diagnostic tools and effective antimicrobial coatings. Within the iSTRIDE Doctoral Network, 10 doctoral candidates (DCs) will receive advanced training. The programme emphasizes the development of strong translational skills for careers in biomedical research and medical technology innovation. Training is delivered through cross institutional collaboration, active engagement with industry partners, structured workshops, and research secondments. A distinctive feature of iSTRIDE is that all DCs will complete a hospital internship during their first year, providing early exposure to clinical environments and real world healthcare challenges.

 

Biofilm-associated infections of medical devices represent a major clinical challenge due to their resistance to antimicrobial therapies and complex polymicrobial nature. This PhD project aims to investigate microbial colonization and biofilm formation associated with medical device-related infections, with a particular focus on in vivo dynamics and diagnostic approaches. The project will combine preclinical infection models with longitudinal analysis of microbial communities at the device-tissue interface. Emphasis will be placed on understanding polymicrobial interactions, host inflammatory responses, and the early stages of device-associated infection development. Advanced molecular and imaging-based techniques will be applied to characterize microbial composition, spatial organization, and temporal changes in biofilm communities. In parallel, the project will explore and validate rapid, culture-independent diagnostic strategies for detecting and monitoring device-associated infections, in close collaboration with InBiome (Dr. Dries Budding). By integrating in vivo models with translational diagnostic approaches, the project aims to improve early detection and understanding of medical device infections, ultimately supporting the development of more effective prevention and treatment strategies. The project includes international secondments focusing on clinical exposure, advanced imaging (FISH), and bioinformatics.

We are seeking a highly motivated and curious doctoral candidate (M/F/D) with a strong interest in microbiology, infection biology, and medical device-associated infections. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in biology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, molecular medicine, or a related field. Experience with microbial culture techniques, molecular biology, and/or microscopy is highly desirable. Prior exposure to animal models, biofilm research, or microbial community analysis (e.g., sequencing-based approaches) is considered an advantage but not mandatory. We are looking for an independent, analytical, and well-organized researcher with a proactive attitude and strong problem-solving skills. The candidate should have excellent communication skills in English, be able to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team, and be motivated to contribute to a collaborative and international research environment with clinical and industrial partners.

 

In accordance with the mobility rules of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months during the past 3 years prior to recruitment. The candidate must not already be in the possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment.

The Laboratory of Experimental Trauma Surgery provides the opportunity to work at the interface of trauma surgery and microbiology, one of the most dynamic and rapidly advancing areas in biomedical research. We offer a stimulating, supportive, and international environment where you can develop your scientific skills and professional potential as part of a diverse and collaborative research community.

 

The appointment will be on a temporary full-time basis for a maximum duration of 36 months (PhD position) and includes an attractive salary and allowances package in accordance with the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) regulations.