PhD Student for the Molecular Mechanisms of the Abscopal Effect in Pancreatic Cancer

IT-Systemhaus der Bundesagentur für Arbeit; Heidelberg; Vor Ort; EUR 45.000 - 55.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading cancer research institute in Heidelberg is inviting applications for a PhD position focused on the molecular mechanisms of the abscopal effect in pancreatic cancer. Candidates should have a Master's degree in molecular biology or related fields, alongside hands-on experience in various cellular biology techniques. This role offers access to high-level equipment, international networking opportunities, and a doctoral salary with benefits, fostering a family-friendly working environment.

Leistungen

30 days of vacation per year

Access to international research networks

Doctoral salary with social benefits

Targeted training and mentoring

Qualifikationen

• Hands-on experience in cellular and molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with RNA immunoprecipitation, ChIP, or protein immunoprecipitation.
• A proactive and responsible attitude toward project development.

Aufgaben

• Execute radiation experiments in cancer cell lines and ex vivo models.
• Perform in vitro experiments, including RNA-protein interactions.
• Prepare high-quality scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

Kenntnisse

Cell culture

RNA/DNA extraction

qPCR

Western blotting

Communicative English

Experience with mouse models

Ausbildung

Master's degree in molecular biology or related field

Tools

RNA immunoprecipitation

FACS

Extracellular vesicle isolation

Jobbeschreibung

PhD Student for the Molecular Mechanisms of the Abscopal Effect in Pancreatic Cancer

The Division of Biomedical Physics in Radiation Oncology at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) invites a PhD candidate to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the abscopal effect in pancreatic cancer. The role focuses on state‑of‑the‑art radiation biology, multi‑omics profiling, CRISPR‑Cas9 tools, tumor‑immune co‑cultures, patient‑derived organoids, and syngeneic mouse models.

Tasks

• Execution of radiation experiments (X‑ray, proton, or heavy‑ion) in cancer cell lines and ex vivo models (PDOs)
• In vitro experiments, including RNA‑protein interactions (RNA‑IPs), qPCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and FACS
• Tumor‑immune cell co‑cultures
• Multi‑omics profiling, in collaboration with DKFZ and international partners
• Isolation and characterization of EV populations and high‑throughput analysis of their cargos, in collaboration with European partners
• Communication of findings through regular group meetings, institutional seminars, scientific publications, and international presentations
• Preparation of high‑quality scientific manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals

Profile

• Master's degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, or a related biomedical field
• Hands‑on experience in cellular and molecular biology techniques, such as cell culture, RNA/DNA extraction, qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, FACS, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence
• Previous work experience with one of the following methods is highly appreciated:
• RNA immunoprecipitation, ChIP or protein immunoprecipitation
• Extracellular vesicle isolation
• Co‑culture or 3D culture systems
• Experience with mouse models and/or RNAseq data analysis is advantageous, but not a prerequisite
• A solution‑driven mindset and a proactive, responsible, and independent attitude toward project development are desirable in this dynamic research environment
• Excellent communication in English, collaborative skills, and ability to work in international teams is required

What 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
• Possibility of part‑time work
• Family‑friendly working environment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized German job ticket
• Targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
• Holistic approach to well‑being through the Corporate Health Management Program

Interested?

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

Contact:

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

Application Deadline: 09.01.2026

Applications by e‑mail cannot be accepted.

Please also note that we cannot return applications submitted by post.

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.