PhD position (m/f/d) experimental and molecular tumor immunology and genetic T cell engineering

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 innovative and efficient cellular immune therapeutics in these areas. Our own GMP laboratories and close networking with University and University Hospital offer excellent opportunities for clinical translation of novel immune cell products. We are offering a

The group of Prof. Philipp Beckhove at the LIT (https://www.rcii.de/en/research/departments/department-for-interventional-immunology/about/ ) is looking for a highly motivated and talented PhD student to pursue cutting-edge research in the field of experimental and molecular tumor immunology and genetic T cell engineering.

About the project

Our group is interested in investigating the mechanisms underlying the complex interplay between immune and malignant cells, resulting in the control and eradication of cancer. With the help of state-of-the-art methods such as long-term live cell imaging, single-cell RNA-sequencing and transcriptome analysis, and CRISPR genome editing, we aim to reveal the molecular basis of effective immune responses to malignancies. In addition, we utilize the obtained knowledge by means of genetic T cell-engineering to generate T cells that have superior anti-tumor activity.

Your task will include:

• Handling of primary human and murine immune cells
• Build on existing expertise to use and further develop CRISPR genome editing
• Using cellular methods (e.g., FACS) and functional assays (cytotoxicity assays, ELISA, chemotaxis experiments, imaging, etc.) to characterize immune cells
• Engineer T cells and test their functionality 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 an ambitious team on a competitive project, and who fits the following profile:

• Strong interest in immunology & cancer
• Master in 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 biology and immunology
• Keen interest in using modern technology (i.e. CRISPR, T cell engineering, imaging, etc.)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and team spirit
• Experience in mouse models (FELASA certificate) would be advantageous.

What we offer

Our lab offers 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 where you can foster your skills and get the opportunity to learn cutting edge technologies such as CRISPR gene editing, T cell engineering, etc..

• An international research environment that offers exciting and diverse opportunities
• Varied field of activity
• Flat hierarchies and short decision-making processes
• A highly motivated and cooperative team
• Individual development opportunities
• Flexible working hours
• Job ticket

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 Prof. Philipp Beckhove (philipp.beckhove(at)ukr.de ). We are looking forward to your detailed application.

Please apply via our homepage http://www.rcii.de quoting the reference PB-2023-3.

Application deadline is October 6th , 2023.