Doctoral Candidate (PhD student) position (M/W/D)

**Spitze** in der Medizin. **Menschlich** in der Begegnung.**Regensburg University Hospital** leads the field in research, teaching and patient care. We employ 5000 dedicated colleagues, who provide first rate medical care for the whole of Eastern Bavaria. We offer cutting-edge medicine, and our top professionals have access to the latest and best equipment. We are committed to the highest level of medical and nursing care for our patients, and to a teamwork that respects and values our personnel.**The Department of Trauma Surgery** is offering a# Doctoral Candidate (PhD student) position (m/w/d)at the Laboratory for Experimental Trauma SurgeryThe position is to be filled full-time (38.5 h/ week), limited to 3 years starting from March 1, 2026Doctoral Candidate 9 (DC9): Development of bacteriophage-based therapies for infection prevention in bone conduction hearing implants.#### **SHIELD network**#### This position is part of the European Doctoral Network “” (Strategies for Healing Implant-associated infections and Enhancing Longevity in Devices), which offers 16 early-career researchers a unique opportunity to help shape the future of managing implant-associated infections (IAIs). The network focuses on in-depth research into the complex mechanisms underlying IAIs and the development of novel antibacterial biomaterials.#### **Your Tasks**This PhD project (DC9) focuses on the biological evaluation of hydrogel-based systems designed for the localized delivery of bacteriophages or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to treat bacterial infections associated with bone conduction hearing implants (BCHI). These delivery systems will be applied to both metallic and polymeric surfaces, including components such as polymer healing caps, percutaneous titanium abutments, and silicone-based transcutaneous devices. The project will investigate phage and AMP stability, release kinetics, and antibacterial efficacy against biofilm-forming pathogens using advanced in vitro infection models that closely mimic physiological conditions. Complementary in vivo studies will assess therapeutic efficacy and host immune responses. Conducted in close collaboration with clinical and biomaterials experts, including Oticon Medical (Dr. Martin Johansson), this interdisciplinary project aims to advance the development of targeted antimicrobial therapies to improve infection management in BCHI patients and reduce implant-related complications.#### **Your profile**We are seeking a highly motivated and curious doctoral candidate (M/F/D) with a strong interest in microbiology, infection biology, biofilm, and antimicrobial research, particularly in the context of medical device-associated infections. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in biology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, or a related field. Experience with microbial culture techniques, molecular biology, antimicrobial testing, biomaterials, and/or animal infection models is a strong advantage. We are looking for an independent, analytical, and creative researcher with excellent communication skills in English, a collaborative mindset, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary and translational research in an international environment.#### **Eligibility requirement**In accordance with the mobility rules of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Germany for more than 12 months during the past 3 years prior to recruitment. The candidate must not already be in the possession of a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment.#### **We offer**The Laboratory of Experimental Trauma Surgery provides the opportunity to work at the interface of trauma surgery and microbiology, one of the most dynamic and rapidly advancing areas in biomedical research. We offer a stimulating, supportive, and international environment where you can develop your scientific skills and professional potential as part of a diverse and collaborative research community.The appointment will be on a temporary full-time basis for a maximum duration of 36 months (PhD position) and includes an attractive salary and allowances package in accordance with the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) regulations.* Motivation letter describing research interests, career goals, relevant skills and experience, and explaining how the candidate’s profile aligns with the advertised DC position.* Complete Curriculum Vitae (CV) with details of previous research and training experience, and contact information for references. #J-18808-Ljbffr