Research Assistant with the aim of a PhD

Entry date:
as soon as possible

Application deadline:
2026-09-20

Salary:
E 13 TV-H

Duration:
3 years

Volume of employment:
part-time (65%)

The University of Marburg, founded in 1527, offers a variety of excellent programs of study for around 22,000 students and confronts the important topics of our time through excellent research across a broad spectrum of sciences.

The Department of Medicine, Institute of Virology, research group Dr. Alexandra Kupke is currently accepting applications for a

The position is offered for a period of 3 years, if no former times of qualification must be considered. The starting date is as soon as possible. The position is part-time (65 % of regular working hours) with salary and benefits commensurate with a public service position in the state Hesse, Germany (TV-H E 13, 65%).

The project aims to investigate the cellular and tissue-specific mechanisms that determine the neurotropism and pathogenesis of henipaviruses in the central nervous system. To this end, highly pathogenic Nipah viruses will be compared with closely related, apathogenic viruses—with a particular focus on potential viral entry points and the local innate immune response. Therefore, in vitro and ex vivo models, including cell culture and barrier models as well as organotypic brain slices, will be established and utilized.

Tasks:

• Scientific services in research
• Establishment of neuronal ex vivo and in vitro models
• Virological, molecular biological and immunological work under BSL-2 and BSL-4 conditions
• Independent planning, performance and analysis of experiments
• Presentation of results at international conferences and preparation of scientific publications as well as the doctoral thesis

The position is limited to a time period deemed adequate for the completion of a doctoral degree. As part of the assigned duties, there will be ample opportunity to conduct the independent scientific research necessary for the completion of a doctorate. The limitation complies to Section 2(1) of the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG).

Profile:

• Completed university degree (Diploma, Master’s degree or equivalent) in Human Biology, Biology, Biochemistry, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or a related field
• Experience in molecular biological, cell biological and virological methods
• Experience in the generation of primary (murine) cell and tissue models is an advantage
• Knowledge of histology and neurology is an advantage
• High level of motivation, conscientiousness and ability to work effectively in a team

Disposition to own scientific qualification (e.g. a doctorate project in the area of virology) is expected.

We offer:

• An interesting and diverse scope of work
• Flexible working hours and attractive remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the public service of the State of Hesse (TV-H)
• Free use of public transport throughout Hesse (Landesticket)
• Opportunities for professional development and further training
• Occupational pension scheme (VBL)

We actively support the professional development of junior researchers by the offers of Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office and the Higher Education Didactics Office.

Contact for more Information

Dr. Alexandra Kupke

+49 6421-28 65182

kupke@staff.uni-marburg.de

We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. As a certified family-friendly university, we support our employees in balancing family and career. A reduction of working time is possible. Applicants with a disability as discribed in the Social Security Code (Section 2(2) and (3) of Book IX of the Social Security Code (SGB IX)) will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. Application and interview costs can not be refunded.

Please apply by 20. September 2026 using the application-button below.

Online application