PhD Position at the Cluster of Excellence SynthImmune of Heidelberg University

About the role

This project directly links fundamental RNA biology to emerging RNA therapeutics, enabling the development of next-generation RNA delivery strategies inspired by viral systems.

Responsibilities

• Investigate how specific RNA modifications shape RNA secondary and tertiary structure and feedback on RNA function.
• Study viral RNA genome modifications as model systems for efficient folding and packaging.
• Apply high-throughput and targeted methods (e.g., RNA-seq-based modification mapping, structure probing, biochemical assays, FRET assays).
• Explore how RNA features influence selective loading into nanoparticles.
• Contribute to the rational design and functional testing of synthetic mRNAs optimized for stability and delivery.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, virology, or a closely related field.
• Strong passion for science, with a particular enthusiasm for RNA biology and an interest in synthetic/translational RNA applications.
• Strong experience with standard molecular biology techniques, including hands-on work with RNA.
• Clear ambition to develop into an independent scientist.
• High reliability, strong initiative, and enjoyment of troubleshooting.
• Able to work both autonomously and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, virology, or a closely related field.
• Strong passion for science, with a particular enthusiasm for RNA biology and an interest in synthetic/translational RNA applications.
• Strong experience with standard molecular biology techniques, including hands-on work with RNA.
• Clear ambition to develop into an independent scientist.
• High reliability, strong initiative, and enjoyment of troubleshooting.
• Able to work both autonomously and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Skills

• Hands-on experience with RNA manipulation and analysis.
• Experience with high-throughput and targeted methods for RNA studies.
• Ability to troubleshoot and solve complex problems.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Benefits

• Joint mentorship and integrated training in both groups.
• Gaining interdisciplinary scientific expertise.
• Stimulating interdisciplinary and supportive research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art technologies for RNA modification analysis, sequencing, and structural biology.
• Integration into the DFG-funded graduate school “Young Researchers in RNA Modifications and Processing”.
• Fully funded 3.5-year PhD position in accordance with DFG guidelines.

Pay

N/A

Schedule

N/A

Benefits

• Joint mentorship and integrated training in both groups.
• Gaining interdisciplinary scientific expertise.
• Stimulating interdisciplinary and supportive research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art technologies for RNA modification analysis, sequencing, and structural biology.
• Integration into the DFG-funded graduate school “Young Researchers in RNA Modifications and Processing”.
• Fully funded 3.5-year PhD position in accordance with DFG guidelines.

Contact

Alessia Ruggieri (Ruggieri@med.uni-heidelberg.de)

Application deadline

August 02, 2026

Planned start of the project

October 01, 2026