PhD/Department of Neurology/BBIM/DM/CM

PhD Position (m/f/d) in Neuroimmunology and Translational Proteomics

The Department of Neurology (Director: Prof. Dr. Dr. Sven G. Meuth) at the Body & Brain Institute Münster is seeking a highly motivated candidate for a PhD position (m/f/d) in neuroimmunology and translational proteomics, starting on 1 October 2026. The position is initially a fixed-term position through 30 June 2030.

PhD position (m/f/d), TV-L E13, 65%

Opened in 2025, the Body & Brain Institute Münster (BBIM) brings together experimental neuroscience, clinical research, imaging and data-driven approaches in a modern, interdisciplinary environment.

The research project

How do metabolites shape communication between immune cells, glial cells and neurons?

We investigate this question within the Transregional Collaborative Research Centre 460, “Dynamics of immune, glial and neuronal network interaction”, an interdisciplinary research consortium spanning Münster and Mainz.

In your PhD project, you will investigate polyamines as metabolic messengers and investigate their role in neuroimmune processes and multiple sclerosis. You will work with primary immune and glial cells, human iPSC-derived neurons, co-culture models and clinical samples. The project combines functional cell biology with quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteomics, metabolomics, flow cytometry, electrophysiology and single-cell analyses. You will receive guidance in integrating and analysing the resulting datasets, while gradually working more independently.

Our research group

The newly established research group led by Dr Christina B. Menskes combines experimental neuroimmunology, human model systems and translational proteomics to identify novel disease mechanisms, biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Most of her publications and scientific profile can be found under the name Christina B. Schroeter .

Christina Menskes has extensive experience in studying CNS immune, glial and endothelial cells and in conducting translational proteomics studies. During a research fellowship at Harvard Medical School, she further developed her expertise in quantitative proteomics and human iPSC-based neuronal models.

As the first scientific member of the group, you will actively help build the new team and gain increasing independence in developing your project. You will benefit from close supervision and ample scope for your own ideas.

Your profile

• Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular medicine, neuroscience, bioinformatics or a related discipline
• interest in neuroimmunology, cell biology and translational research
• practical experience in cell culture and molecular or cellular biology methods
• scientific curiosity, willingness to learn, and a conscientious, structured approach to work
• enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration and good command of written and spoken English

We offer

• broad methodological training in proteomics, metabolomics, iPSC-based models, cell biology and omics data analysis
• access to modern research infrastructure and core facilities in Münster and Mainz
• structured, individual supervision with regular project and career development meetings
• integration into a well-funded, international and interdisciplinary CRC/Transregio network, including a dedicated qualification programme with workshops, networking and funding opportunities for doctoral researchers
• support for conference travel, publications and the development of your own scientific profile
• a supportive and collegial working environment and the opportunity to actively shape a newly established research group

Apply now via our career portal.

In cases of equal qualification, women will be given preference in accordance with applicable law. We particularly welcome applications from candidates with disabilities.