PhD Student in Immunotherapy, Optical CRISPR Screens, and Spatial Transcriptomics
Join a cutting-edge junior research group at DKFZ to develop next-generation immunotherapies using CRISPR screens, spatial transcriptomics, and advanced cell engineering.
Best for:Best for master’s graduates in biology, bioengineering, biomedical science, biochemistry, or bioinformatics with hands-on lab experience, computational skills, and a passion for cancer research and immunotherapy.
Overview
This PhD position at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) offers the opportunity to work within the Junior Research Group Pediatric Immuno-Oncology, led by Dr. Franziska Blaeschke. The project focuses on enhancing CAR- and TCR-based immunotherapies by identifying and optimizing highly effective anti-tumor immune cells. Using a combination of genome-wide CRISPR screens, advanced cell engineering (e.g., AAV-based knockins), and innovative imaging/sequencing technologies (e.g., NIS-seq, spatial transcriptomics/proteomics), the research aims to uncover key features of elite immune cells and translate these into next-generation therapies. The work involves a wide range of experimental methods, interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributions to grants, patents, and publications.
What you'll do
- Develop and optimize experimental protocols for advanced technologies like NIS-seq and spatial CRISPR screens.
- Apply computational approaches to analyze CRISPR screens, imaging, and sequencing data, including spatial transcriptomics/proteomics.
- Design and execute complex experiments involving cloning, CRISPR/Cas9, viral transduction, flow cytometry, microfluidics, next-generation sequencing, microscopy, and in vivo/in vitro models.
- Stay updated with the latest scientific literature and present research findings regularly within the group and externally.
- Contribute to grant applications, patent filings, and academic publications.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in biology, bioengineering, biomedical science, biochemistry, bioinformatics, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency in written and spoken English required
Instruction: English
- Proven experience in molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, CRISPR/Cas9, viral transduction).
- Familiarity with advanced imaging and sequencing technologies (e.g., spatial transcriptomics, NIS-seq).
- Basic proficiency in computational analysis (e.g., handling CRISPR screen data).
- Ability to perform in vivo studies independently.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
- No specific nationality restrictions mentioned.
- No residency or age limits specified.
- No prior experience caps mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15
Submit a single PDF containing a one-page motivation letter and a CV, including a publication list and contact details for two references. Applications must be submitted through the official DKFZ portal; email submissions are not accepted.
- Motivation letter (1 page)
- CV including publication list
- Contact information for two references
Contact
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