Ph.D. Microbiome-derived Factors on CAR-T Cell Therapy Research (m/w/d)

The Institute of Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg-Speyer-Haus,
and the Frankfurt Cancer Institute (FCI) is seeking a highly motivated and
talented PhD candidate to join our cutting-edge research program. This position
focuses on investigating the intricate relationships between the microbiome,
cancer biology, and the role of the microbiome in CAR-T cell products and
therapy.

Ph.D. (m/f/d) Microbiome-derived Factors on CAR-T Cell Therapy Research

This fully-funded Ph.D. position by the LOEWE-Schwerpunkt CARISMa aims to
explore how the human microbiome influences cancer biology and immunotherapy,
particularly focusing on CAR-T cell technology. The research will address how
microbiome-derived factors impact the efficacy of CAR-T cells in the treatment
of solid tumors. The successful candidate will use experimental approaches to
address key questions in this rapidly evolving field.

Key responsibilities

* Investigate the impact of microbial composition and microbiome-derived
metabolites on CAR-T cell functionality and treatment outcome in vitro and in
vivo
* Analyze how pre-existing microbiome conditions may affect patient outcomes
in CAR-T cell therapy
* Conduct microbiome sequencing, metabolic profiling, and in vitro immunology
assays
* Use bioinformatics to analyze microbiome and immunological data
* Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team in the CARISMa consortium,
including experts in CAR-T cell engineering, oncology, and immunotherapy
* Discuss progress at the yearly Thesis Committee Meetings
* Present findings at international conferences, and publish results in
peer-reviewed journals
Eligibility criteria

* Academic Qualifications: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in cancer
biology, molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, bioinformatics, or a
related field
* Technical 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
group
* Additional Competencies: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills,
ability to work independently and as part of a team, and excellent written and
oral communication in English
What we offer

* A dynamic and inclusive research environment with access to the
state-of-the-art facilities
* Mentorship and training opportunities in microbiome analysis using
preclinical models and patient-derived materials
* A nourishing research environment with institutional research seminars and
invited speaker lectures, as well as local symposiums and conferences under
CARISMa
* Opportunities for networking and collaboration with leading national and
international researchers
* A competitive salary in line with DFG guidelines (E13)
Application process

To apply, please submit the following documents to GSH application portal,
email:bewerbung@georg-speyer-haus.de

, by January 01, 2025:

* A detailed CV, including academic achievements and relevant skills
* A cover letter describing your motivation for pursuing this Ph.D. in the
microbiome-cancer field and your fit for the position
* Contact information for two to three academic references
* Any relevant publications or scientific presentations (optional)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online or in-person interview.

Start date

Winter 2025, which can be determined by mutual agreement.

Contact information

For further inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr. Melek Canan Arkan, e-mail:
c.arkan@georg-speyer-haus.de

We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds,
particularly those underrepresented.

Georg-Speyer-Haus
Paul-Ehrlich-Str. 42-44 | 60596 Frankfurt/Main