Beschreibung

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.


The group of Prof. Dr. med. Kaan Boztug at the Clinic of Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology (Centre of Pediatric, University Hospital Bonn) offers a


Postdoctoral position in Immunogenetics and Pediatric Autoimmune Diseases (m/f/d)

(full-time position 100 %)

Join a Leading Research Program in Childhood Lupus and Early-Onset IBD
The newly established Clinic for Pediatric Immunology and Rheumatology at the University Hospital of Bonn, led by the Director Prof. Kaan Boztug, is seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Fellow to contribute to a cutting-edge research program focusing on the genetic and immunological mechanisms underlying childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and very-early-onset inflammatory bowel disease (VEO-IBD). Our lab has a long-standing track record in identifying the key genetic factors that determined immune cell function in humans. In particular, in recent work we have focused on inflammatory bowel disease and identified previously unknown monogenic etiologies underlying early-onset IBD such as CD55 deficiency (Ozen A et al., NEJM 2015), DEF6 deficiency (Serwas NK et al. Nat. Commun2019) or SYK gain-of-function mutations (Wang L et al., Nat Genet 2021). Another focus is on early-onset systemic autoimmunity such as SLE, where we have identified the essential role of factors such as HEM1 (Salzer E et al., Sci Immunol 2020) or DOCK11 (Block J et al., NEJM 2023) in disease pathogenesis. Our research focuses on determining the pathophysiological basis of disease and the identification of targeted treatment options as exemplified in these studies.


The Postdoctoral project will expand ongoing efforts to investigate monogenic causes of autoimmunity in childhood, particularly in SLE and pediatric IBD. The focus will be on genetic discovery using advanced genomic approaches, as well as mechanistic immunology to functionally validate candidate genes and pathways. To gain deeper mechanistic insights, the project will leverage relevant model systems, including mouse, zebrafish, and organoid platforms. The position offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment that bridges clinical pediatrics, human genetics, immunology, and translational science. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the-art technologies and a strong collaborative network across academic and clinical institutions. The group fosters a supportive and innovative culture, with ample opportunities for scientific growth, high-impact publications, and long-term career development.

PhD degree in life sciences (biology, biomedicine, immunology or comparable studies) with a first-authored publication in an international, peer-reviewed scientific journal
Profound scientific background in immunology, molecular and cell biology
Practical experience in immunology/hematology, molecular and cell biology as well as imaging techniques
Specific experience in relevant techniques for modelling IBD or SLE (e.g., organoids or murine models of IBD) is a plus
Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
Strong English skills with excellent writing and presentation abilities
Enthusiastic and collaborative work attitude

A dynamic, international and interdisciplinary working environment with a strong focus on immunology
Close collaboration with leading scientists in the field of pediatric immunology and rare immune disorders
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the research community
...