Senior Postdoc for the Division of Personalized Immunotherapies (m/w/d)

“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 is a collaboration of the German Cancer
Research Center (DKFZ) with the Research Institute for Translational Oncology
at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
(TRON gGmbH), the University Medical Center Mainz and the Johannes Gutenberg
University Mainz. The goal of the partnership is to develop effective
immunotherapies and to identify novel biomarkers for assessing the
effectiveness of treatment.

To strengthen the HI-TRON team in Mainz, we are seeking a skilled and motivated

Senior Postdoc for the Division of Personalized Immunotherapies

Reference number: 2024-0329

* Mainz
* Fulltime
* HI-TRON Mainz – Personalized Immunotherapies
The Division of Personalized Immunotherapy (headed by Prof. Dr. Özlem
Türeci) at HI-TRON Mainz is looking for a senior postdoc with a strong
background in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and a passion for developing
innovative platforms. The successful candidate will be instrumental in
advancing fundamental knowledge and creating novel technologies to enable
cell-specific biomolecule delivery.

Your Tasks

* Lead the development and optimization of LNP formulation for cell-specific
biomolecule delivery, including high-throughput screening of lipid compositions
and formulation parameters
* Develop and apply methods for LNP purification and characterization
* Apply in vitro and in vivo models to assess biodistribution, efficiency,
toxicity, and cell-specific LNP uptake
* Lead the development of LNP targeting strategies using ligand conjugation,
peptides, or antibodies for cell / tissue-specific delivery
* Present research findings internally and externally (national and
international conferences) and publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals
* Identify new research directions, develop grant proposals, and contribute
to securing external funding
Your Profile

* Master's degree and PhD in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, bio- or
chemical engineering, or related fields
* Extensive experience in LNP formulation methods, including hands-on
experience with microfluidic devices, and targeted delivery strategies,
including bioconjugation techniques
* Deep knowledge in nanoparticle purification (e.g., size-exclusion
chromatography, ultracentrifugation, and dialysis), and characterization (e.g.,
dynamic light scattering, and Cryo-EM)
* Strong background in relevant in vitro and in vivo models and approaches
for evaluating key parameters of nanoparticles, such as efficacy,
biodistribution, and toxicity
* Proven publication record in high-impact journals related to biological
therapeutics and nanomedicine
* Meticulous, quality-focused, and able to work independently while
consistently meeting deadlines with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency
* Strong written and oral communication skills in English with effective
interpersonal skills that foster teamwork and collaboration
We Offer

* Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and
oppor­tunities for inter­national networking at the highest level
* Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and
capital-forming payments
* 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
* Our Corporate Health Manage­ment Program offers a holistic approach to
your well-being
* Develop your full potential: access to the DKFZ International Postdoc
Program and DKFZ Career Service with targeted offers for your personal
development to further develop your talents
Contact:
Dr. Ibrahim Murathan Sektioglu
Telefon: +49 6131 179816

The position is limited to 3 years with the possibility of prolongation.

Are you interested?

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

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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