Master's thesis in the field of cell biology and cell analysis

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft; Erfurt; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 60.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research institute in Erfurt seeks a Master's student for a thesis focusing on blood sample analysis using Real-time Deformability Cytometry. Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor's in biosciences and are eager to learn practical skills. This position offers experience in cutting-edge research without financial compensation but includes collaborative supervision. Applications are welcome from all qualified candidates.

Qualifikationen

• Current enrollment in a Master's program required.
• Desirable to have experience in a biological or chemical laboratory setting.
• Knowledge of common software tools for data analysis.

Aufgaben

• Prepare and process human blood samples using standardized protocols.
• Perform RT-DC measurements on blood samples with fluorescence labeling.
• Develop staining and analysis workflows to distinguish different blood cells.
• Conduct data analysis for training machine learning models.

Kenntnisse

Basic lab techniques

Data analysis

Communication skills in German and English

Ausbildung

Bachelor’s degree in biosciences

Jobbeschreibung

Overview

At the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI, we bring together the expertise of our employees to drive medical progress. Our focus is on cell and gene therapy, pharmaceuticals and vaccines, molecular and immune diagnostics, and other innovative topics. We are the professional home for scientists, engineers, laboratory technicians, and administrative staff who work together in the service of health.

The Fraunhofer IZI has a branch office in Erfurt (Herman-Hollerith-Straße 3) at the Fraunhofer Center Erfurt (FZE). For this group at the FZE, we are looking for a Master's student to work on a thesis from November 2025. The FZE develops methods for the precision analysis of cells based on principles and techniques from analytical chemistry, biotechnology and biophysics.

What you will do

The Master's thesis is part of a project that aims to employ a multifaceted analysis of blood samples via Real-time Deformability Cytometry (RT-DC). Robust workflows for the characterization of solid blood components (e.g., erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets) in blood samples using fluorescence-assisted RT-DC measurements will be established. By developing and applying defined staining protocols, you will generate high-quality datasets that will then serve as training data for neural networks, which are being developed to allow for quick, precise and label-free classification of blood cells.

Your tasks will include

• Preparation and processing of human blood samples using standardized protocols
• Performance of RT-DC measurements on blood samples with fluorescence labeling
• Development of staining and analysis workflows to distinguish between different blood cells
• Data analysis and curation for the training of machine learning models

What you bring to the table

• A Bachelor’s degree (B. Sc.) in biosciences (e.g., biochemistry, biology, biotechnology, biophysics or a related field), and current enrollment in a Master's program
• Practical experience with basic lab techniques (such as pipetting, preparation of buffers, etc.); experience working in a biological or chemical laboratory setting is desirable
• Knowledge of data analysis and processing using common software tools
• Ideally, good communication skills in both German and English
• You are enthusiastic about learning new practical skills, approach unfamiliar topics with curiosity and quickly and independently delve into them through your analytical approach.

What you can expect

• With our strong links to industry, you benefit from an environment where creative research freedom meets real-world application – with tangible societal impact. You actively contribute to shaping tomorrow’s medicine and gain insights into Europe’s leading organization for applied research.
• You will work as part of an international and interdisciplinary team, have access to state-of-the-art technologies for biological and biochemical analyses, and enjoy a high degree of creative freedom.
• You will gain valuable hands-on experience and prepare for future roles by learning relevant scientific methods and strengthening your skills in independently planning and conducting experiments.
• Throughout your time at Fraunhofer IZI, you will receive technically sound and collaborative supervision at eye level.

The duration of the project is flexible and depends on your university’s requirements and your personal schedule. Please note: We cannot offer financial compensation for thesis work. However, you can expect an exciting research topic and intensive scientific supervision.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

Interested? Apply online via our career portal now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Do you have questions about the position or the application process? We’re here for you:

Hendrik Reichelt
Research Group »DNA Nanostructures«
[e-mail]

Dr. David Smith
Head of Research Group »DNA Nanostructures«
Email: [e-mail]

Lea-Sophie Fingerhut
Strategic HR Development & Recruiting
Email: [e-mail]
Phone: [phone]

Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI

www.izi.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 81399 Application Deadline: 09/28/2025