PhD Position in Stem Cell and Organoid Research
Join a leading pediatric cancer research institute to advance stem cell and organoid research using CRISPR and iPSCs.
Best for:Best for recent master’s graduates in immunology, cell biology, or molecular biology with hands-on lab experience and a passion for CRISPR-based genetic research and organoid models.
Overview
This PhD position at the St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI) in Vienna offers the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on human lymphocyte development and pediatric cancer. Under the supervision of the Salzer Group, the successful candidate will develop and optimize lymphoid organoid systems using CRISPR-based genome engineering and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The work will focus on understanding genetic alterations in childhood leukemia and immune disorders, with direct clinical relevance for pediatric patients. The position is ideal for motivated researchers with a background in immunology, cell biology, or molecular biology, seeking to engage in collaborative, translational science in a dynamic international environment.
What you'll do
- Develop and optimize lymphoid organoid systems derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and primary human CD34+ cells
- Perform CRISPR screens targeting genes implicated in lymphocyte development to study genetic alterations
- Generate and characterize lymphocyte organoid cultures from CRISPR-edited CD34+ stem cells
- Conduct rigorous experimental design, data analysis, and contribute to manuscript preparation and conference presentations
- Monitor scientific literature and integrate novel approaches into ongoing research projects
- Collaborate with pediatric clinicians and translational researchers to ensure clinical relevance of findings
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field, or an MD in Human Medicine
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration
Instruction: English
- Experience with CRISPR-based genetic screens and gene editing techniques
- Hands-on laboratory experience including molecular cloning, cell culture, and single-cell sequencing
- Strong background in immunology, cell biology, or molecular biology
- Rigorous approach to experimental design and data analysis
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting
- No specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
- Open to applicants with a strong academic background and motivation for translational research
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15 (Europe/Vienna) · open until filled
Applicants must submit a CV, a cover letter explaining their motivation for pursuing a PhD and their interest in the Salzer Group, contact details of one reference, and a list of publications (if applicable) with explanations of their top contributions. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
- CV
- Cover letter (motivation for PhD and interest in the Salzer Group)
- Contact details of one reference
- List of publications (if applicable) with explanations of top contributions
Contact
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