PhD position (E13 TV-L, 65%) – Mechanobiology of host-pathogen interactions (EN)

PhD position (E13 TV-L, 65%) – Mechanobiology of host-pathogen interactions to be filled as soon as possible. The position is initially limited to three years.

The Cluster of Excellence “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections” (CMFI) in the Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology & Infection Medicine (IMIT) at the University of Tübingen is looking to fill one PhD position (E13 TV-L, 65%) in Dr. Effie Bastounis’ research group. The earliest starting date for this position will be on 01.09.2025. The position is funded for a period of 3 years at least.

Specific Research Project

This PhD position is part of a DFG collaborative project (2nd funding phase) with the Constantinou Lab at the TU Braunschweig. The project aims to uncover how mechanical forces influence the dynamics of intracellular bacterial infections in epithelial tissues, with a focus on the food-borne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. Using StretchView 2.0, a high-throughput, multi-directional cell-stretching platform developed by our collaborators and compatible with live-cell imaging, the PhD student will explore how cyclic stretching modulates:

• Intercellular junctions and cytoskeletal remodelling in epithelial sheets
• Mechanical forces and epithelial barrier function during infection
• Listeria monocytogenes spread via direct cell-to-cell transmission
• Mechanically-driven clearance responses such as Collective Infected Cell Extrusion (CICE) (see Hundsdorfer et al., Cell Rep, 2025)

The work involves conduction of live-cell microscopy, force inference methods, traction force microscopy, and advanced imaging techniques such as FRET imaging using specialized biosensors to assess ERK signaling dynamics. Integration of perfusion into the system will allow study of how fluid flow alters cytokine gradients and host defense mechanisms.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in interdisciplinary research bridging bioengineering, cell biology and infection biology. Ideal applicants will have:

• A background in biological sciences, bioengineering, physics, or related fields
• Experience cell culture, live-cell microscopy, or host-pathogen interactions (a plus)
• Skills in image analysis, programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB), or force quantification methods (preferred)
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, as the project involves close collaboration with engineers in Braunschweig

The successful candidate will have access to excellent infrastructure and interdisciplinary training within the CMFI Cluster and the Bastounis Lab, fostering a rich environment for scientific growth and collaboration.

Important Note on Lab Relocation

Dr. Bastounis has accepted a W2 Professorship at Humboldt University in Berlin, and the lab will relocate there around April 2026. The selected candidate is expected to move with the group to continue the project in Berlin. Relocation support and integration into the new research environment will be ensured.

Application & Contact

For inquiries, please contact Dr. Effie Bastounis at effie.bastounis@uni-tuebingen.de. Applications should include: (1) Brief cover/motivation letter; (2) CV; (3) Degree certificates; (4) Names and contact information of two referees.

Please submit your application materials by email to effie.bastounis@uni-tuebingen.de.

The University aims to increase the proportion of women in research and teaching and urges suitably qualified women scientists to apply. Qualified international researchers are expressly invited to apply. Disabled persons with equal aptitude will be given preferential consideration.