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

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.

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 progess 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[at]georg-speyer-haus.de, by January 01, 2025:

1. A detailed CV, including academic achievements and relevant skills
2. A cover letter describing your motivation for pursuing this Ph.D. in the microbiome-cancer field and your fit for the position
3. Contact information for two to three academic references
4. 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[at]georg-speyer-haus.de

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