Open PhD Thesis position:

Project: The capacity of inhibitory B7 superfamily members to down-modulate allergen-specific T cell responses

T cell responses are tightly regulated by numerous signals resulting from the interaction of receptors on T cells with costimulatory ligands expressed on the surface of antigen presenting cells, like dendritic cells (DC). In the proposed project, we will study the role of PD-L2 and B7-H3 on established T cells responses to allergens using the major allergens of birch and mugwort pollen as model antigens. For this a novel type of engineered antigen-presenting cell will be generated and used to study the effects of inhibitory costimulatory molecules on allergen-specific T cells.

The project will involve cellular immunology work (T cell isolation; APC-T-cell coculture work; stimulation; flow cytometry…). In addition various molecular biology techniques (PCR, qPCR, cloning, retroviral expression….) will be employed.

Candidates must have final degree in diploma studies related to the field or a master’s degree in an area related to the field.

Contact: peter.steinberger@meduniwien.ac.at

Start: autumn 2013; Admission will be through a selection procedure for the newly established doctoral program “Molecular, Cellular and Clinical Allergology” of the Medical University of Vienna (March-May 2013).

Salary: according to the FWF

We offer the possibility to work in an stimulating environment on an interesting and promising project. The program offers a first class education in the field of immunology and allergology and hence excellent career perspectives.