Job Beschreibung

„Research for a life without cancer“ is our mission at the German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts – whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.

We are seeking for our growing Junior Research Group "Pediatric Immuno-Oncology" a highly motivated

PhD Student – Translational Oncology / Immunotherapy / Genetic Engineering

Reference number: 2025-0019

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Junior Research Group "Pediatric Immuno-Oncology"

The research group, led by Franziska Blaeschke, was launched in March 2024 and uses advanced genetic engineering to improve immunotherapy of solid tumors. While treatment with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells has shown great success in pediatric leukemia, CAR T cells are still inefficient in most solid tumors. We have recently pioneered the use of CRISPR-based Modular Pooled Knockin Screens to study which (synthetic or natural) gene products can be overexpressed in primary human T cells to enhance the efficacy and fitness of CARs (Blaeschke et al., Cell, 2023). The PhD student will use and advance cutting-edge technologies in the field of gene editing (e. g., CRISPR knockin, knockout, CRISPRa, base editing, prime editing) to study the interactions of CAR T cells with tumor cells and improve T cell efficacy in the context of solid tumors. The position will include a large variety of experimental methods and models, both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the doctoral researcher will closely collaborate with other experts in the field, especially with the Shifrut Lab at Tel Aviv University, as this PhD project is funded by the DKFZ-MOST cooperative research program.

Your Tasks

• Establishing new experimental protocols and optimizing novel technologies (e. g., prime editing)
• Setting up computational approaches to design gRNA libraries and read out large CRISPR screens
• Designing and performing complex experiments involving a large number of methods (e. g., cloning, CRISPR/Cas9, viral transduction, AAVs, flow cytometry, next-generation sequencing, xenograft and syngeneic in vivo models, primary cell culture, functional analyses such as cytokine release, proliferation, cytotoxicity, etc.)
• Staying up to date with scientific literature
• Presenting your research on a regular basis within the group, the DKFZ/KiTZ and externally
• Preparing grants, patents, and publications

Your Profile

• Completed studies with diploma or master's degree in biology, bioengineering, biochemistry or other relevant fields
• Excellent communication skills and social competence
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
• Previous experience in coding (e. g., RStudio)
• Team player who is motivated to closely work with collaboration partners within the institute and beyond
• Strong laboratory and writing skills
• Willingness to lead and perform in vivo studies
• Previous experience in CRISPR/Cas technology development, CAR T cells, primary cell culture and in vivo models is helpful but not mandatory
• High level of enthusiasm, motivation, and responsibility
• Deep interest in planning, conducting and analyzing experiments in a systematic and independent way
• Effective time management and organizational skills

Please submit a motivation letter (1–2 pages) and a CV (including a publication list and contact information of two references) in one single PDF.

We Offer

• Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and oppor­tunities for inter­national networking at the highest level
• Access to international research networks
• Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of part-time work
• Family-friendly working environ­ment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
• Our Corporate Health Manage­ment Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being

Contact:
Dr. Franziska Blaeschke
Phone: +49 6221 42-2965

The position is limited to 3 years with the possibility of prolongation.

Are you interested?

Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!

Apply now

We are convinced that an innovative research and working environment thrives on the diversity of its employees. Therefore, we welcome applications from talented people, regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical ability, religion and age. People with severe disabilities are given preference if they have the same aptitude.

Notice: We are subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Therefore, all our employees must provide proof of immunity against measles.

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