The University Hospital Bonn (UKB) is a maximum care hospital with more than 1,300 beds. Our more than 9,000 employees take on tasks in research, teaching and patient care as well as in public health at the highest level. In the science ranking (LOMV) and in the economic result, the UKB is number 1 of the university hospitals in NRW and in 2021 had the third highest case mix index of the university hospitals in Germany. We are part of the Excellence Cluster ImmunoSensation ( https://www.immunosensation.de/ ) at University Bonn, which is now the most successful University within the Excellence Strategy of the German Government.

The Department for Nucleic Acid Immunity & Genome Defense at the Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology at the Faculty of Medicine of the Rheinische Friedrich Wilhelms-University Bonn invites applications for a full-time (38,5 h/week)

Postdoctoral fellow (m/f/d) – Sterile Inflammation & Epigenetics

The position is to be filled as soon as possible on a project-limited basis for a duration 2 years and funded by the European Research Council.

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to conduct research on fundamental aspects of innate immune priming and susceptibility to infections. The project aims at understanding how endogenous nucleic acids can contribute to the basal activation of innate sensors. Our group previously studied the role of nucleic acid sensing via cGAS/STING and RIG-like receptor pathways in hereditary inflammatory diseases culminating the development of therapeutically relevant drugs (Haag et al., 2018 Nature, Dressel et al., 2023, Can Res., Schumann et al, 2023 J Exp Med., Marinkovic et al., 2025 Can Res). In continuation of this work, we are trying to define and understand how nucleic acid sensing is regulated in the steady state. The project will specifically investigate the role of endogenous retroelements in this context. Immune-functional consequences will be studied using in vivo mouse models, and in cell culture systems to define the principles that govern of receptor activation at the molecular level. The candidate will have the opportunity to obtain additional external funding and develop an independent research program during the postdoctoral training.

We are looking for an enthusiastic scientist with a desire to work on a challenging and timely project using state of the art technology as part of a friendly and supportive team. Applicants with Ph.D. degree or submitted thesis / publication will be considered. The ideal candidate will have a background in immunology, epigenetics, cell biology. Experience in working with animal models, transcriptomics (long read, single cell), multi-parameter flow cytometry, molecular biology and fluorescence imaging will be preferred.

We offer an interdisciplinary research team consisting of biologists, MDs, and bioinformaticians. Our group fosters independence, innovation and collaboration of the next generation of scientists.

The position is available for an initial period of two years with the possibility of extension.

We offer:

• The salary will be according to the German salary scale TV-L (EG 13, 100%)
• To work in a motivated team in a thriving research environment
• Attractive conditions and benefits, an interdisciplinary research institution that fosters innovation and collaboration and are committed to training and career development of the next generation of scientists
• Responsible and versatile: a job with a lot of creative freedom in a collegial team
• Flexible for families: flexible working time models, the option of a place in the company day-care center and offers for those returning from parental leave
• Provision for later: company pension scheme
• Clever to work: Possibility of an interest-free loan to buy an e-bike
• Tailor-made education: Subsidized further education and training
• Systematic start: Structured induction
• Healthy at work: Numerous health promotion offers, free membership in UKBfit
• Employer benefits: preferential offers for employees (corporate benefits)

The University of Bonn is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. It is certified as a family-friendly university. It aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are under-represented and to promote their careers in particular. It therefore urges women with relevant qualifications to apply. Applications will be handled in accordance with the Landesgleichstellungsgesetz (State Equality Act). Applications from suitable individuals with a certified serious disability and those of equal status are particularly welcome.

Applications should include a concise motivation letter (< 1 page), names and addresses of three referees and be send preferably by e-mail under indication of reference number until July 31th 2025 to Prof. Rayk Behrendt (behrendt@uni-bonn.de).

Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Rayk Behrendt

Institut für Klinische Chemie und Klinische Pharmakologie