PhD Student “Translational Cancer Biology” – Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the Translational Pediatric Oncology Research Group of Prof. Dr. Christian Braun at the Department of Pediatrics (Director: Prof. Jan-Henning Klusmann), University Hospital Frankfurt. Our group investigates how dysregulated gene‑expression programs contribute to the development and progression of pediatric cancers, with the overarching goal of identifying new therapeutic vulnerabilities. We combine advanced CRISPR‑based screening approaches with transcriptomic and proteomic profiling and employ patient‑derived cancer models to uncover the molecular mechanisms that drive high‑risk tumors. The successful candidate will become part of an interdisciplinary and collaborative team committed to translating molecular insights into new precision‑oncology strategies for children with cancer. The position is initially limited to one year, with the possibility of extension.

Your Role

• Design and perform CRISPR‑based genetic perturbation screens in patient‑derived and engineered cancer models
• Analyze and interpret epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic datasets using state‑of‑the‑art statistical and computational approaches
• Functionally validate candidate genes, pathways, and molecular mechanisms in cellular model systems
• Contribute to the development and preclinical evaluation of targeted therapeutic strategies for high‑risk pediatric tumors
• Present results within the research group and at scientific meetings, and contribute to publications
• Collaborate closely with clinicians, molecular biologists, and computational scientists within an interdisciplinary environment

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Life Sciences or a closely related field with an excellent academic record
• Strong interest in uncovering novel therapeutic strategies and in understanding epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms of gene regulation
• Practical experience with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, PCR, flow cytometry)
• Basic proficiency in bioinformatics and experience analyzing high‑throughput datasets (e.g., RNA‑seq, proteomics)
• Motivation to work independently as well as collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research team
• Excellent communication skills and proficiency in written and spoken English
• Due to legal regulations, valid proof of measles immunity / measles vaccination is required

Benefits & Work Conditions

• In addition to an attractive salary based on a collective agreement (TV‑G‑U, E13) with an annual special payment, you benefit from long‑term security through company pension schemes
• Part‑time employment is possible, 26 h/week, initially limited to one year, with the possibility of extension
• Internal and external training for your professional development
• Benefit from our attractive health offers. We offer regular online and face‑to‑face courses on nutrition, relaxation, sports and exercise
• We offer childcare in our daycare center (contact UKF‑Familienservice) and child care during holidays
• Free public transport in all Hessen (Free State Ticket Hessen)
• Uniklinik‑Campus, Mensa, Cafés
• Insights: Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn

It's time to join our team!

Contact: Prof. Dr. Christian Braun

Application Deadline:

Required documents: cover letter, CV (résumé), relevant certificates
Please include a brief paragraph outlining your motivation for applying to this PhD position.

We welcome applications from candidates of all genders. Women are currently underrepresented in these positions at Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt. Therefore, applications from women are especially encouraged. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal personal and professional qualifications.