PhD at Leibundgut-Lab
The Leibundgut-lab focuses on investigating how the immune system and commensal fungi interact. These fungi, like bacteria, inhabit the skin as part of the microbiota, but they have been less extensively researched. The immune response involving IL-17 plays a crucial role in maintaining a balanced state between fungi and the surrounding tissues. However, there is also a connection between skin commensal fungi and inflammatory or allergic conditions like atopic and seborrheic dermatitis. This raises the question of whether the antifungal response contributes significantly to the development of these diseases.
PhD Description
Your task will involve conducting research on the immune response to the skin commensal yeast called Malassezia, both in healthy and diseased skin. The aim is to identify the fungal secreted products that trigger and regulate the Th17 and γδT17 antifungal response. To accomplish this, you will utilize mouse models that simulate skin fungal commensalism as well as atopic dermatitis. Additionally, you will perform experiments using cell cultures. The project will require the application of various approaches such as immunology, microbiology, genetics, transcriptomics, and biochemistry.
Scholarships Requirements
- You have a Master's degree and a strong background in immunology (preferably T cell immunology) and microbiology.
- Experience with animal experimentation and multicolour flow cytometry are an asset.
- You are dedicated, highly motivated and enthusiastic for basic research.
- You are creative, hardworking and a team player.
- You are committed to driving your own project and to actively contributing to an inspiring scientific environment.
What We Offer
Our team comprises a group of 10 individuals who are passionate about studying fungi. This includes PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, master's students, and a lab manager. We foster a pleasant working atmosphere characterized by a strong sense of teamwork and collaborations, both within our lab and with other research groups in Switzerland and abroad. Our laboratory is situated at the Irchel Campus of the University of Zurich, specifically within the Vetsuisse Faculty. Additionally, we are affiliated with the Institute of Experimental Immunology at the University of Zurich, which grants us access to a stimulating and collaborative network of immunologists and microbiologists throughout Zurich.
PhD students working in the LeibundGut-lab are part of the Microbiology and Immunology (MIM) PhD program offered by the Life Science Graduate School Zurich. They are officially registered as students at the Science Faculty of the University of Zurich.
We provide diverse and engaging research opportunities in an inspiring environment that is socially significant. Promoting diversity and inclusion is of great importance to us.
How to Apply
Employment start date to be mutually agreed. Please submit your complete application, including CV, letter of motivation, 2 letters of reference compiled in a single pdf) by 30 June 2023. For further information, please visit this Scholarship Link and for further information related to the application, please visit the Apply Button below
