PhD Position – Virology and Infection Biology (m/f/d)

The Institute of Virology, in the research group of Prof. Hendrik Streeck at the University Hospital Bonn (UKB), Faculty of Medicine, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-University Bonn, invites applications for a:

PhD Position (m/f/d)
Project: Ongoing HIV Protein Production as a Driver of Immune Activation in ART-treated Individuals

The position is funded for 3 years (65% TV-L E13), starting on January 1st, 2026, within the framework of the TTU HIV program of the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF).

Project Description

Although modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively suppress HIV replication to undetectable levels, many people living with HIV (PLWH) continue to experience persistent immune activation and inflammation. These chronic immune disturbances are associated with an increased risk of non-AIDS-related comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease, neurocognitive disorders, and accelerated aging. The exact mechanisms driving this residual immune activation remain poorly understood. Recent findings suggest that ongoing production of viral proteins – particularly the capsid protein p24 – even in the absence of detectable viral RNA, may play a crucial role in sustaining this immune activation. In this project, we investigate the hypothesis that ultra-low levels of HIV p24 protein, measurable using an ultrasensitive single-molecule assay, are a key driver of ongoing immune responses in ART-treated individuals. Data from our group show that approximately 30-40% of PLWH with long-term viral suppression still have detectable plasma p24 levels in ultra-low concentrations. This project will combine advanced immunological assays (e.g., flow cytometry, AIM assay, cytokine profiling), viral outgrowth assays, HIV integration site analysis and determination of HIV clonality in HIV-infected cells to understand the mechanistic link between low-level protein expression and immune activation.

Your Tasks:

• Perform and analyze multiparametric flow cytometry-based immune profiling
• Conduct functional T cell assays (e.g., AIM, polyfunctionality assays)
• Analyze low-level protein expression in plasma (SIMOA/ELISA)
• Perform HIV outgrowth assays
• Investigate HIV integration sites in relation to p24 expression
• Collaborate closely with national partners within the DZIF network
• Prepare data for publications and presentations

Your Profile:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in immunology, biology, molecular biology, or a related field
• Prior experience with flow cytometry, immunological assays, or molecular biology techniques is an advantage
• Prior experience with Python and R programming is considered an asset
• Highly motivated, team-oriented, and well-organized
• Good English communication skills (spoken and written)

We Offer:

• A 3-year PhD position (65% TV-L E13) with strong mentoring and integration into a high-profile research network (DZIF)
• An interdisciplinary research environment at one of Germany’s top universities
• Opportunities for collaboration with clinical partners and participation in international conferences
• Access to cutting-edge technologies (e.g., SIMOA, multicolor flow cytometry)
• A structured PhD training program and career development support