Julius Lingnau began his academic journey in 2018 at the Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biomedicine. His Bachelor’s thesis investigated the molecular mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome activation following hypoxia and reoxygenation in THP-1 cells, sparking his interest in innate immunity and inflammasome biology. In 2022, Julius joined the Master’s program in Medical Immunosciences and Infection at the University of Bonn. For his Master’s thesis, he worked in Florian Schmidt’s lab, where he explored the mechanisms of NLRP1 inflammasome activation by camelid-derived VHHs and alphaviruses. Additionally, Julius conducted a lab rotation in Dr. Leo Hanke’s group at the Karolinska Institut ein Stockholm, focusing on the characterization of small anti-Hendra virus VHHs and utilizing AlphaFold for predictive modeling of protein interactions. At the end of 2024, Julius began his PhD in Florian Schmidt’s lab, focusing on the coordination of antiviral immune responses during DNA virus infections in the human skin, with a particular interest in the potential involvement of GBPs (guanylate-binding proteins).
In addition to his academic pursuits, Julius has a background in competitive rowing, including participation in the U23 Europeanand World Rowing Championships. Although he concluded his rowing career in 2022, sports remain a central part of his life. Outside the lab, he enjoys bouldering, cycling, rowing, and other activities that keep him active.