The Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Germany’s largest academic institution dedicated to infection research and a member of the Helmholtz Association, has been at the forefront of the fight against infectious diseases for 60 years. Since its founding, HZI has brought together scientists from more than 60 nations to conduct cutting-edge research on pathogens and their interaction with the human immune system. With a focus on long-term goals, the institute aims to develop innovative methods and strategies for preventing, diagnosing, and treating infectious diseases. In partnership with leading universities and research institutions, we are looking for the next generation of pioneers in infection research. Scientific curiosity has the power to ignite groundbreaking discoveries and transform global health challenges into opportunities for innovation. The "CURIOSITY IS INFECTIOUS" initiative celebrates this spirit of inquiry, highlighting how curiosity spreads through collaborative efforts, creating a ripple effect of positive change. Inspired by the legacy of trailblazing scientists such as Rosalind Franklin, and Françoise Barré-Sinoussi, this program seeks to cultivate a new generation of researchers who harness curiosity to combat infectious diseases and improve lives worldwide. At HZI, we believe in thinking outside the box and welcome a broad spectrum of disciplines to address infection research's most pressing challenges. By encouraging interdisciplinary approaches, we ensure that diverse perspectives drive innovative solutions. HZI’s unique "OneLab" philosophy unites our expertise across several sites (CLICK HERE) throughout Germany, enabling seamless collaboration and innovation. Our diverse community, representing a broad range of expertise-from medicinal chemistry and RNA biology to One Health expertise-offers a truly international and interdisciplinary environment to address global health challenges. The PhD projects will focus on infection research within a framework of a highly integrated and collaborative research initiative across several sites in Germany. To help guide your research journey, we provide a curated list of PhD projects that reflect HZI’s multidisciplinary focus. Find a full list of projects HERE, you may choose up to 2 projects for you application. Under: https://hzi.opencampus.net/ We are seeking the next pioneers of infection research to join our mission to tackle global health challenges. Eligibility Criteria: Applicants should meet the following requirements: A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biomedical sciences e.g., Microbiology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Chemisty, Bioinformatics, Phsyics, Pharmacy etc.] An ambitious and out-of-the-box mindset Excellent written and oral communication skills in English Contagious curiosity Modern laboratories, including S3 unit State-of-the-art analytical instrumentation Ample biological profiling platforms (in vitro and in vivo) A lively scientific community 30 days vacation, (24.12. & 31.12. are considered as completely free days) An annual additional payment (Weihnachtsgeld) analogue to § 20 TVöD Social security included Flexible working hours and workplace design DO IT- PhD initiative https://www.helmholtz-hzi.de/de/karriere/do-it-doktorandeninitiative A corporate culture of appreciation and promotion of equal opportunities Buddy System for new doctoral researchers A family office to support family and career as well as childcare offers Interesting additional public service benefits Possible subsidy of the job-ticket People with severe disabilities and equivalent professional qualifications who are suitable for the position are given preference. In order to protect your rights, we ask you to provide us with a clearly recognizable reference to the existence of a degree of severe disability in your cover letter or resume. The HZI is actively committed to equality, diversity and integration. For this reason, the HZI pursues the goal of professional equality between women and men. The position is suitable for part-time work.