项目介绍

2025年2月28日

The group of Prof. Bahtiyar Yilmaz at the Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, is offering a fully funded PhD fellowship in the field of gut microbiota and mucosal immunology. The position is available from April 2025 or shortly thereafter, with a duration of three years, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).Research focusOur lab investigates the role of anti-Gal antibodies in host immunity, with a strong focus on their interactions with gut microbiota in both health and disease. We explore how these antibodies influence microbial colonization, and their implications in inflammatory diseases. Our research employs cutting-edge techniques in metagenomics, immunophenotyping, glycomics, and gnotobiotic models to unravel the intricate interplay between natural antibodies and the gut microbiome (Yilmaz et al., Cell 2014; Nature Medicine 2019; Cell Host & Microbe 2021, 2022). The recruited PhD student will work on an SNSF-funded project investigating how anti-Gal antibodies modulate gut microbiota composition and intestinal immunity. The project integrates longitudinal human cohort data, in vivo experimental models, and high-throughput microbial and immunological analyses to decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying gut immune homeostasis.What we offer

• A dynamic and collaborative research environment at the DBMR, a leading biomedical research institute at the University of Bern.
• Comprehensive training in immunology, microbiome research, and computational biology, with access to state-of-the-art facilities for metagenomics, flow cytometry, and in vivo models.
• Opportunities to present research at international conferences and collaborate with leading experts in gut microbiota and immunology.
• Salary according to SNSF regulations, ensuring competitive financial support for PhD students.
• A vibrant, interdisciplinary, and international graduate program at the University of Bern.

Candidate profile

• Master’s degree in immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, or a related life sciences discipline.
• Prior experience or strong interest in flow cytometry, microbiota research, and experimental immunology.
• Highly motivated, independent, and eager to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken)

Application processIf you are excited about exploring host-microbiota interactions and contributing to cutting-edge research in immunology, please send your CV, motivation letter, and contact details of two references to Prof. Bahtiyar Yilmaz, email: Bahtiyar.yilmaz@unibe.ch. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.Application deadline: March 15th 2025