Ph.D. Position in Microbiome-derived Factors on CAR-T Cell Therapy Research

OverviewThe Institute of Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg-Speyer-Haus, and the Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI) is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to study the microbiome, cancer biology, and the role of microbiome-derived factors in CAR-T cell products and therapy. This fully-funded Ph.D. position by the LOEWE-Schwerpunkt CARISMa aims to explore how the human microbiome influences cancer biology and immunotherapy, with a focus on CAR-T cell technology and the treatment of solid tumors. The successful candidate will use experimental approaches to address key questions in this rapidly evolving field.ResponsibilitiesInvestigate the impact of microbial composition and microbiome-derived metabolites on CAR-T cell functionality and treatment outcome in vitro and in vivoAnalyze how pre-existing microbiome conditions may affect patient outcomes in CAR-T cell therapyConduct microbiome sequencing, metabolic profiling, and in vitro immunology assaysUse bioinformatics to analyze microbiome and immunological dataCollaborate with a multidisciplinary team in the CARISMa consortium, including experts in CAR-T cell engineering, oncology, and immunotherapyDiscuss progress at the yearly Thesis Committee MeetingsPresent findings at international conferences, and publish results in peer-reviewed journalsEligibility CriteriaAcademic Qualifications: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in cancer biology, molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, bioinformatics, or a related fieldTechnical Skills: Hands-on experience with microbiome sequencing (16S rRNA, metagenomics) and analysis, and with immunological techniques (flow cytometry, cytokine profiling)Proficiency in computational tools for microbiome or high-throughput sequencing data analysis is highly desirable but can be learned in the research groupAdditional Competencies: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team, and excellent written and oral communication in EnglishWhat We OfferA dynamic and inclusive research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilitiesMentorship and training opportunities in microbiome analysis using preclinical models and patient-derived materialsA nourishing research environment with institutional seminars and invited speaker lectures, as well as local symposiums and CARISMa conferencesOpportunities for networking and collaboration with leading national and international researchersA competitive salary in line with DFG guidelines (E13)Application ProcessTo apply, please submit the following documents to the GSH application portal or via email bewerbung[at]georg-speyer-haus.de by January 01, 2025:A detailed CV, including academic achievements and relevant skillsA cover letter describing your motivation for pursuing this Ph.D. in the microbiome-cancer field and your fit for the positionContact information for two to three academic referencesAny relevant publications or scientific presentations (optional)Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online or in-person interview.Start DateWinter 2025, which can be determined by mutual agreement.Contact InformationFor further inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr. Melek Canan Arkan, e-mail: c.arkan[at]georg-speyer-haus.deWe strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented.Job DetailsSeniority level: InternshipEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: Research, Analyst, and Information TechnologyIndustries: Medical and Diagnostic LaboratoriesFrankfurt am Main, Hesse, Germany #J-18808-Ljbffr