The University of
Salzburg invites applications for two fully funded PhD studentships.
The ICA program comprises nine internationally renowned research
groups and focuses on specific immunological aspects of cancer and allergy.
ICA aims to attract and select high-calibre graduate students from all
over the world, provide an intellectually stimulating environment, excellent
infrastructure and ambitious scientific projects. ICA will train
young scientists to the highest international standards preparing them for a
successful career in basic as well as translational and applied science.
Project I
Structure and
Mechanism of TPP2 Activation
The project will
focus on structural characterization (crystallization) of the molecule
Tripeptidyl peptidase 2 (TPP2). TPP2 is a cytosolic subtilisin-like serine
protease involved in a number of physiological processes, in particular in the
downstream processing of proteasomal peptides. Its role in MHC class
I antigen processing and its implications in the proliferation of tumor cells
attracts increasing interest.
Project II
Peripheral generation
of antigen-specific regulatory T cells
The project will
explore T-cell responses to a tissue-restricted antigen using inducible
transgene expression in the skin, with the aim to study mechanisms involved in
the in vivo generation of T-effector cells and regulatory T-cells. Resulting
modulations of the Teff:Treg ratio will be tested in disease models of
autoimmunity and allergy.
ICA offers
numerous benefits to its students: attractive salaries for a period of 3 years
(including health, occupational and national insurance), cover of research
consumables, ICA-specific technological training courses, soft skill
courses, full funding of participation in congresses, workshops and
international courses, including stays in foreign partner laboratories (up to 6
months).
For detailed
information about application, selection procedure and admission, and about the
scientific program and faculty of ICA visit