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

Overview

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:

• 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 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.