The Goethe University Frankfurt is a leading research institution in the field of immunological and molecular biological research. In the research group "Translational Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy” at the Department of Dermatology of Frankfurt University Hospital (Director: Prof. Dr. med. Bastian Schilling), a PhD position is available at the earliest possible date (limited to a period of three years, part time 65%).

The aim of this doctoral project is the identification and functional validation of HLA peptides, in particular neoantigens that arise from aberrant transcription and translation. The focus is on assessing the immunogenicity of these antigens using state-of-the-art-immunological assays and imaging techniquesin order to determine their potential for cancer immunotherapy.

Your role:

• T-cell assays : Performance and optimization of cell culture experiments to investigate T-cell activation (e.g., ELISpot, intracellular cytokine staining, flow cytometry)
• Functional validation (killing) : Establishment and execution of cytotoxicity assays (killing assays) to test the effectiveness of antigen-specific T-cells against tumor cells
• Imaging : Application of microscopic techniques (live-cell imaging) to visualize interactions between T-cells and tumor cellsas well as antigen presentation
• Scientific communication : Presentation of results at conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals

• Successfully completed university degree in the natural sciences (Master’s degree or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, molecular medicine or in a related field
• Knowledge of cell culture and immunological laboratory techniques, especially T-cell biology
• Experience with flow cytometry (FACS) and/or microscopy is an advantage
• High motivation, initiative, analytical thinking, and a strong interest in translational cancer research
• Very good written and spoken German and English skills.
• Due to legal regulations, valid proof of measles immunity / measles vaccination is required.

• Access to state-of-the-art-technology and advanced infrastructure (core facilities, imaging platforms)
• Opportunities for further qualification and a structured doctoral program
• In addition to an attractive salary based on a collective agreement (TV-G-U, EG13 65%) with an annual special payment, you benefit from long-term security through company pension schemes
• Internal and external training for your professional development
• We offer childcare in our daycare center (if you have any questions, please contact UKF-Familienservice), child care during holidays
• Uniklinik-Campus, Mensa, Cafés
• Free public transport in all Hessen (Free State Ticket Hessen)
• Benefit from our attractive health offers. We offer regular online and face-to-face courses on nutrition, relaxation, sports and exercice
• Insights: Instagram , YouTube , LinkedIn
• FAQ´s for new employees

Contact: Prof. Dr. Bastian Schilling, Director of the Department of Dermatology
Phone: +49 69 6301-5311
Email: chefsekretariat@unimedizin-ffm.de
Application Deadline: 26.02.2026

We look forward to receiving your complete application, including a cover letter, your CV, and relevant references.

We welcome applications from candidates of all genders. Women are currently underrepresented in these positions at Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt. Therefore, applications from women are especially encouraged. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal personal and professional qualifications.