PhD student (m/f/d) Molecular Oncology

The Institute of Molecular Oncology/University Medical Center Göttingen, laboratory of Dr. Ramona Schulz-Heddergott, is looking for a highly motivated

PhD student (m/f/d) Molecular Oncology

3 years, part time (50%) | salary according to TV-L

The position is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and offers a TV-L E13 (50%) salary. It is situated within the clinical research unit KF05002 and available from 1 April 2021.

Our group studies the oncogenic impact of the tumoral chaperone system including their stabilised oncogenes such as mutated p53 variants in colorectal cancer and pancreatic cancer. Mutant p53 variants differ in their regulatory capacity and there is a strong need to understand individual p53 mutant variants. Another research focus is how mutated p53 variants are stabilised by the chaperone machinery, and how we can target such oncogenic proteins. We are based on our bench‑to‑bedside interest – translational research, testing our in‑vitro findings in experimental cancer mouse models and in samples from human patients.

Methods

• In vivo experiments: cancer mouse model, colonoscopy, drug application, organ isolation and generation of organoid cultures
• Histology: micro- and cryotomy, immunohistochemical staining, light and fluorescence microscopy
• Molecular and cellular biology: a broad range including PCR, qPCR, RNA‑seq, immunoblotting, proliferation/viability/growth assays, migration assays etc.

Selected References

Isermann et al. 2021. Suppression of HSF1 activity by wildtype p53 creates a driving force for p53 loss‑of‑heterozygosity. Under consideration in Nature Communications, Published Apr 27, 2020.

Klemke et al. 2021. Hsp90‑stabilised MIF supports tumour progression via macrophage recruitment and angiogenesis in colorectal cancer. Cell Death Dis. 2021. In press.

Schulz‑Heddergott et al., 2018. Therapeutic ablation of gain‑of‑function mutant p53 in colorectal cancer inhibits Stat3‑mediated tumour growth and invasion. Cancer Cell. 34(2):298‑314.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will hold a qualified diploma or M.Sc. in biology, biochemistry or related fields, with a strong background in oncology or related topics and be experienced in cell culture techniques, molecular biology and cell biology. The ideal candidate is proficient in or at least prepared to work with engineered mouse models.

We are looking for an exceptionally motivated, pro‑active and team‑orientated candidate who excels in the challenge of being in a dynamic and very productive research team.

Benefits

We offer a PhD position with salary according to TV-L E13/50%. The candidate will be working in an innovative, well‑equipped and scientifically stimulating surrounding. The involvement in graduate PhD programs at the University of Göttingen, such as the Graduiertenschule GGNB.

Women are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants with disabilities and equal qualifications will be given preferential treatment.

We look forward to receiving your application by February 28th, 2021.

University Medical Center Göttingen, Institute of Molecular Oncology
Dr. Ramona Schulz‑Heddergott, group leader
Justus‑von‑Liebig‑Weg 113
7077 Göttingen
Tel.: 0551/39‑60780
E‑Mail: ramona.schulz‑