Ph.D. Position in Microbiome, Cancer, and Circadian Rhythm Research

Ph.D. Position in Microbiome, Cancer, and Circadian Rhythm Research

| Arkan

This fully-funded PhD position by the FCI focuses on exploring how the human microbiome interacts with circadian biology to influence cancer development, progression, and treatment response.

Ph.D. Position in Microbiome, Cancer, and Circadian Rhythm 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 Ph.D. candidate to join our cutting-edge research program investigating the intricate relationships between the microbiome, cancer, and circadian rhythms.

This fully-funded PhD position by the FCI focuses on exploring how the human microbiome interacts with circadian biology to influence cancer development, progression, and treatment response. The successful candidate will integrate experimental approaches, such as microbiome sequencing, molecular biology, and animal models, with bioinformatics and systems biology to unravel novel insights into this dynamic interplay.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to investigate host-microbiome interactions using preclinical in vivo models and patient-derived biomaterials
• Establish and apply in vitro tool systems to model host-microbiome associations
• Analyze host, microbiome and circadian rhythm data using bioinformatics tools
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in oncology, chronobiology, nutrition, and microbiology
• 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 molecular biology, microbiology, cancer biology, bioinformatics, or related fields
• Technical Skills : Experience in microbiome sequencing (16S rRNA or metagenomics), microbial culture systems, molecular techniques, imaging techniques, and/or bioinformatics analysis
• Additional Competencies : Strong analytical skills, ability to work independently and collaboratively, 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 to develop technical, analytical, and professional skills
• A nourishing research environment with institutional research seminars and invited speaker lectures, as well as local symposiums and conferences
• Opportunities for networking and collaboration with leading national and international researchers
• A competitive salary in line with DFG guidelines (E13)
• 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/Spring 2025, which can be determined by mutual agreement.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr. Melek Canan Arkan,

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