Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) - New Strategies for Targeting Autoreactive Plasma Cells (Team TAP)

About BioMed X

BioMed X is an independent research institute located on the campus of the University of Heidelberg in Germany, New Haven in Connecticut, XSeed Labs in Ridgefield, Connecticut, and a world-wide network of partner locations. Together with our partners, we identify big biomedical research challenges and provide creative solutions by combining global crowdsourcing with local incubation of the world’s brightest early-career research talents. Each of the highly diverse research teams at BioMed X have access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and is continuously guided by experienced mentors from academia and industry. At BioMed X, we combine the best of two worlds - academia and industry - and enable breakthrough innovation by making biomedical research more efficient, more agile, and more fun.

About Team TAP

The group ‘New Strategies for Targeting Autoreactive Plasma Cells (TAP)’, led by Dr. Eleonora Melzi, focuses on understanding the development and persistence of autoreactive plasma cells and the production of pathogenic autoantibodies. By employing a combination of state-of-the-art single-cell transcriptomic and high-throughput antibody analysis, we aim to identify new biomarkers of B cell autoreactivity. Ultimately, our goal is to define novel therapeutic strategies specifically targeting autoreactive plasma cells, thus advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of autoimmune diseases.

The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Postdoctoral Researcher to join Team TAP and contribute to projects focused on the characterization of autoreactive B cells and plasma cells in neurological diseases. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative research environment, enjoys tackling complex biological questions, and can work independently while actively contributing to team discussions. The successful candidate will take scientific ownership of defined projects, including experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation, and will be expected to present scientific results internally and at national and international conferences, as well as contribute to the writing of manuscripts for publication. This position offers the opportunity to work at the interface of basic immunology, cutting-edge technology, and translational research.

Required qualifications

• PhD in Immunology, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• Demonstrated interest in B cell biology, antibody responses, and immune-mediated disease.
• Hands-on experience with human samples, including cell culture and lymphocyte isolation.
• Strong expertise in flow cytometry, including multi-color panel design, data analysis, and cell sorting.
• Experience with core immunological assays such as ELISA and ELISpot.
• Solid understanding of cell and tissue biology.
• Ability to work independently, think critically, and manage multiple experimental workflows.
• Experience working in diverse and interdisciplinary teams (including immunologists, clinicians and industry partners).
• Excellent communication skills in English, both oral and written.

Desirable Qualifications (strong plus)

• In-depth background in B cell and plasma cell immunology.
• Experience with single-cell technologies (e.g. scRNA-seq, CITE-seq, immune repertoire analysis).
• Familiarity with high-dimensional data analysis and experimental design for complex datasets.

Candidates are requested to submit

• A one-page cover letter explaining their interest in joining Team TAP.
• A CV highlighting scientific interests, research experience, and publications.
• Two reference letters or contact details of two referees.

What we offer

• The position is sponsored by SERVIER and is available immediately.
• The position is offered initially for three years with the possibility of extension.
• Flexible working hours and hybrid working location.
• Access to a vast scientific network.
• Opportunities to publish in top academic journals and present at top academic and industry conferences.
• International, diverse, and positive work atmosphere that fosters personal and professional growth.
• A competitive salary.
• Access to training and lecture courses in house as well as in neighboring research institutions on the Life Science Campus in Heidelberg.
• Tax-free benefits via digital vouchers at selected partners, complimentary fresh fruits, soft drinks and snacks; team recognition events, complimentary Coursera courses, etc.

Please submit your application to the attention of Dr Eleonora Melzi before February 8th, 2026, via our online application system: https://career.bmedx.com/job/2026-BMX-J01. Applicants will be interviewed on a rolling basis upon incoming applications.

At BioMed X we embrace diversity as we consider it the source of innovation. We are committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ideology, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, or disability.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions: spal@bmedx.com or melzi@bmedx.com

To read about us, please visit: https://bmedx.com/