"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 with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts – whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.

The Helmholtz Institute HI-TRON in Mainz is a collaboration of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) with the Johannes Gutenberg-University (JGU), the University Medicine Mainz (UM Mainz) and the non-profit TRON gGmbH (TRON). The aim of the partnership is to develop pioneering immunotherapies and identify new biomarkers for the effectiveness of the treatment.

The Division " mRNA Cancer Immunotherapies " at HI-TRON Mainz headed by Prof. Dr. Uğur Şahin focuses on improving cancer immunotherapies by addressing resistance mechanisms and limited patient responses. We integrate multi-omics data to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets, and develop mRNA-based strategies to enhance anti-tumor immunity. Our work combines RNA-lipid nanoparticle delivery, advanced immune profiling, and physiologically relevant tumor models to accelerate translation from bench to bedside.

To strengthen our international scientific team, we are seeking for the next possible date a highly motivated and enthusiastic

PhD Student in Cancer Immunotherapy and Tumor Microenvironment Reprogramming

Reference number: 2025-0233

Project Description

The project aims to manipulate the immune landscape of tumors by delivering targeted mRNA combinations to specific cell populations within the tumor microenvironment (TME), with the goal of enhancing immune activation and overcoming immunosuppressive barriers.

Your tasks:

• Design and execute combinatorial mRNA delivery strategies targeting immune, stromal and cancer components of the TME
• Employ RNA-lipid nanoparticle systems for spatially controlled gene expression
• Conduct deep phenotyping of cells in tissues using high-parameter flow cytometry and multiplex 3D imaging
• Use advanced in vitro and ex vivo tumor models to validate therapeutic efficacy
• Collaborate closely with experimental and clinical colleagues from Mainz and Heidelberg
• Present findings in internal meetings and scientific conferences, and contribute to manuscript preparation
• Your Profile
• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in immunology, molecular biology, biotechnology, bioengineering, or a related field
• Strong interest in cancer immunotherapy, RNA therapeutics, and tumor immunology
• Hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques, cell culture and flow cytometry
• Experience in RNA handling and nanoparticle formulation is a plus
• Prior knowledge of immunological methods (ELISA, ELISpot, IHC/IF staining) and microscopy is desirable
• Willingness to work with blood and tissue samples, and animal models
• Motivation to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and translational research environment
• Good communication skills in English (spoken and written)
• Strong analytical mindset, organizational skills, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• We Offer
• Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
• Access to international research networks
• Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of part-time work
• Family-friendly working environment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
• Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being

Contact:
Dr. Alexandra Alves Duarte
Phone: +49 6131 17-9768

The position is initially limited to 3 years.

Application Deadline: 16.09.2025

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.

Are you interested?

Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!

We are convinced that an innovative research and working environment thrives on the diversity of its employees. Therefore, we welcome applications from talented people, regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical ability, religion and age. People with severe disabilities are given preference if they have the same aptitude.

Notice: We are subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Therefore, all our employees must provide proof of immunity against measles.

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