Highly motivated individuals with a solid background in biological or medical sciences are now eligible to apply for a fully financed PhD position in immunology at the University of Basel, Switzerland. This esteemed PhD fellowship in Switzerland is provided by the Department of Biomedicine (DBM) and focuses on innovative immunological memory research, with a focus on infection, vaccination, and cancer immunology. The job is housed in the esteemed Binder Lab, which is well-known for its cutting-edge work in translational immunology and immuno-oncology.
The University of Basel, Switzerland’s oldest university, provides a top-notch academic environment, access to cutting-edge research facilities, and numerous chances for international collaboration, making Switzerland one of the top locations in the world for scientific research. For individuals who want to contribute to significant biomedical discoveries while gaining advanced training in experimental immunology, this PhD research job is perfect.
PhD Position Overview
Designation: PhD Candidate in Immunology
Research Area: Immunological Memory in Infection, Vaccination, and Cancer
Host Institute: Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel
Laboratory: Binder Lab
Location: Basel, Switzerland
Funding Type: Fully Funded PhD Fellowship
Application Deadline: Open until the position is filled
This PhD position in Switzerland offers long-term funding, competitive salary according to Swiss standards, and comprehensive social benefits, making it one of the most attractive PhD fellowships in Europe.
PhD Position Research Focus
The chosen immunology PhD candidate will research the processes that control the durability and caliber of T cell and B cell memory. Enhancing immune defense against infectious diseases, creating efficient cancer immunotherapies, and improving vaccines all depend on an understanding of immunological memory.
The project integrates basic immunology, systems biology, and translational research, allowing the candidate to gain broad and in-depth expertise. The research will employ advanced methodologies such as:
- CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing
- Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq)
- Multicolor flow cytometry
- Human lymphoid organoid systems
- Murine (mouse) models of immune responses
The PhD candidate will be encouraged to actively shape the research direction, propose innovative ideas, and work independently within a highly collaborative scientific environment.
Key Responsibilities of PhD Position
As part of this University of Basel PhD program, the candidate will be responsible for:
- Establishing and optimizing B and T cell priming models in human lymphoid organoids
- Characterizing immune responses using flow cytometry and single-cell sequencing
- Engineering T cell receptors using CRISPR-Cas9 technology
- Testing immune priming conditions in both organoid systems and mouse models
- Analyzing, interpreting, and visualizing high-dimensional immunological data
- Preparing scientific manuscripts, progress reports, and conference presentations
- Actively participating in lab meetings, seminars, and interdisciplinary collaborations
This role provides excellent preparation for careers in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, and clinical immunology.
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Eligibility Criteria of PhD Position
Applicants for this PhD position in Immunology in Switzerland must meet the following requirements:
- A Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Medicine, Immunology, or a related field
- Hands-on experience with laboratory-based experimental work
- Willingness to work with mouse models
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
- Ability to work independently as well as within a team
Desirable Skills
- Prior experience with flow cytometry
- Familiarity with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq)
- Basic knowledge of bioinformatics or data analysis
- Interest in immuno-oncology and translational research
Candidates with diverse academic backgrounds and international experience are strongly encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the PhD Fellowship
This fully funded PhD fellowship at the University of Basel offers numerous academic and professional benefits:
- Full funding with a competitive Swiss PhD salary
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and core platforms
- Opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaborations within Switzerland and abroad
- Potential research stay at the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm
- Participation in advanced training courses, workshops, and PhD application seminars
- Supportive, international, and inclusive research environment
- High quality of life in Basel, a global hub for life sciences and biomedical research
Why Study for a PhD in Switzerland?
Switzerland consistently ranks among the top countries for research, innovation, and education. Pursuing a PhD in Switzerland means:
- Studying at globally ranked universities
- Earning a respected doctoral degree recognized worldwide
- Working in a multilingual, international research environment
- Benefiting from excellent infrastructure and research funding
- Living in a safe country with outstanding living standards
A PhD fellowship in Switzerland is particularly attractive for international students seeking academic excellence and long-term career growth.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the University of Basel Recruiting Portal. The following documents are required:
- A cover letter describing research interests and motivation
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact details of at least two academic referees
For informal inquiries about the position, applicants may contact:
Dr. Sarah Adamo
Email: sarah.adamo@unibas.ch
Applicants are strongly advised to regularly check the official University of Basel website for updates regarding deadlines and additional requirements.
PhD Position at University of Basel
- Is the PhD Position in Immunology at the University of Basel fully funded?Yes. This is a fully funded PhD position in Switzerland.
- Who is eligible to apply for this PhD fellowship in Switzerland?Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Medicine, or a related field. Prior laboratory experience and strong motivation for immunology research are essential.
- Do international students apply for this PhD position at the University of Basel?Yes. International students from all countries are highly encouraged to apply. The University of Basel offers an international research environment and strong support for global PhD candidates.
- Is IELTS or TOEFL required for this PhD position?There is no fixed IELTS or TOEFL requirement mentioned. However, applicants must demonstrate strong English communication skills, as English is the primary language of research and publication.
- What research areas will the PhD candidate work on?The PhD research focuses on immunological memory in infection, vaccination, and cancer, including T cell and B cell biology, immuno-oncology, and translational immunology.
- Is there an application deadline for this PhD position?There is no fixed deadline. Applications are accepted until the position is filled. Early application is strongly recommended.
Helen Oesha holds a Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and is a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment through education. Since 2021, she has been guiding students toward scholarships and international opportunities, making higher education more accessible worldwide. Oesha platform is widely regarded as a leading source for discovering global opportunities. Having personally experienced the challenges and success of funded doctoral studies, she is passionate about bridging the gap between ambition and access, helping students realize their dreams and reach their highest potential.