PhD position (E13, 65 %) at the Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy (LIT) with flexible starting date

The LIT - Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy (foundation under civil law) (http://www.rcii.de/en/ ), formerly RCI – is a biomedical research center focusing on translational immunology in the fields of cancer immunotherapy, transplant rejection and autoimmunity. The objective of the LIT is to develop efficient immune therapeutic strategies in these areas. Close networking between University and University Hospital thus offers high research efficiency and an excellent research environment.

The group of Christian Schmidlhttps://www.rcii.de/en/research/career-development-program/junior-research-group/ ) at the LIT is looking for a highly motivated and talented PhD student to pursue cutting-edge research in the field of experimental and molecular T cell biology.

About the project

Our group investigates the principles of gene-regulation in functional and dysfunctional immune cell populations in cancer (Riegel et al. 2023 Molecular Cell). You will use state-of-the-art methods to explore and exploit the non-coding genome and its impact on T cell function. Your tasks include:

• Handling of primary human and murine immune cells
• Build on existing expertise to use and further develop CRISPR (epi-)genome editing
• Using cellular (e.g., FACS) and molecular (e.g., single cell analysis, next generation sequencing) methods to characterize immune cells
• Test the function of modified immune cells in advanced in vitro systems and/or murine disease models

Requirements

We are looking for a highly motivated individual who is enthusiastic to work in a young and ambitious team on a competitive project, and who fits the following profile:

• Master in molecular biology/biochemistry/molecular medicine or related fields
• Creative mind that is eager to shape the project and who wants to make an impact on immunological and biomedical research
• Experimental training in molecular cell biology and immunology
• Keen interest in using modern technology (i.e. next generation sequencing, CRISPR)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and team spirit
• Experience in genome editing, mouse models (FELASA certificate), and next generation sequencing methods advantageous but not absolutely required
• Strong interest in immunology & cancer

The Schmidl lab

We offer the opportunity to work at the interface of immunology and cancer, which is one of the most exciting fields of recent biomedical research. We provide a dynamic and motivating working environment with flat hierarchies where you can foster your skills and get the opportunity to use top-notch technologies. The small lab size offers excellent mentoring and the opportunity to contribute and develop own ideas.

The remuneration is based on TV-L.

Moreover, the LIT advocates for the compatibility of family and career.

Disabled applicants (m/f/d) with equal qualifications will receive preferential treatment within the recruitment procedure. Please refer to your disability status already in your application.

Please note that expenses that may arise in the context of an eventual job interview cannot be reimbursed.

For more information, please contact Dr. Schmidl (christian.schmidl(at)ukr.de ). We are looking forward to your detailed application. Please apply via our homepage www.rcii.de quoting the reference CS-2023-1.

Application deadline is Mach 19th, 2023.