PhD Student on the topic “Optimizing Brain Tumor Treatment with Radiotherapy : Defining Tumor M[...]

DKFZ; Dresden; Vor Ort; EUR 30.000 - 50.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

An innovative research center focused on cancer treatment is seeking a PhD student to optimize brain tumor therapies. You will engage in cutting-edge research, exploring the tumor microenvironment and its interactions with normal tissues. This role offers the chance to work with state-of-the-art imaging technologies and collaborate with a dynamic international team. The position provides excellent working conditions, opportunities for personal and professional development, and a supportive environment that values work-life balance. If you are passionate about making a difference in cancer research, this opportunity is for you.

Leistungen

30 days of vacation per year

Family-friendly working environment

Sustainable commuting options

Targeted training and mentoring

Holistic well-being support

Qualifikationen

• Master's degree in biology, biotechnology, or medical physics required.
• Knowledge of tumor/cell biology and in vivo experiments is a plus.

Aufgaben

• Study tumor microenvironment and improve treatment options for brain cancer.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams in translational research.

Kenntnisse

Mammalian Cell Culture

Molecular Biology

Microscopy

Histological Techniques

Image Analysis Software

Programming (R, Python)

Tumor/Cell Biology Knowledge

Team Collaboration

English Proficiency

Ausbildung

Master/Diploma in Biology

Master/Diploma in Biotechnology

Master/Diploma in Medical Physics

Tools

Fiji ImageJ

ilastik

CellProfiler

Jobbeschreibung

PhD Student on the topic “Optimizing Brain Tumor Treatment with Radiotherapy: Defining Tumor Microenvironment and Normal Tissue Interactions”

Reference number:

2025-0101

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 for more precise tumor diagnosis and improved treatment success. Every contribution counts—whether in research, administration, or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work meaningful and exciting.

In collaboration with university partners at seven renowned sites, we have established the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK).

For the DKTK partner site in Dresden, we are looking for a July 2025 start for a

The group Translational Radiation Oncology

Represents the link between preclinical studies and clinical radiation oncology research. Focus areas include high-precision technologies such as particle therapy and biological-driven individualization of radiotherapy.

Your Tasks

• Improve therapeutic options for brain cancer patients by studying the tumor microenvironment and surrounding normal tissue in preclinical models
• Define clinical target volumes, understand biological mechanisms, and identify combined therapeutic approaches to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects

You will:

• Image tumor and normal tissue alterations using preclinical imaging modalities (Optical Imaging systems, CT, MRI)
• Perform mouse cranial proton and photon irradiations with state-of-the-art image-guided radiation therapy
• Perform multiplex immunofluorescence staining
• Apply and develop image analysis workflows for histological evaluation
• Perform spatial analysis at the cellular level in histological tissues
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary team with expertise in translational research, including clinical scientists in Radiation Oncology, Pathology, Radiomics, Biostatistics, and Mathematical Modelling

Your Profile

• Master/Diploma in biology, biotechnology, medical physics, or related fields
• Knowledge of tumor/cell biology is desirable
• Basic skills in mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy, and histological techniques are advantageous
• Interest in translational studies involving experimental tumors, with willingness to perform in vivo experiments (FELASA B certification is a plus)
• Experience or willingness to learn image analysis software (e.g., Fiji ImageJ, ilastik, CellProfiler) and programming languages (e.g., R, Python)
• Strong commitment, motivation, and discipline to work independently and efficiently
• Team player capable of succeeding in a dynamic international environment
• Proficiency in written and spoken English

We Offer

• Excellent working conditions with state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking
• Access to international research networks
• Doctoral salary with social benefits
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Part-time work options
• Family-friendly working environment
• Sustainable commuting options, including subsidized Germany job ticket
• Targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
• Holistic well-being support via our Corporate Health Management Program