Position: PhD Student – Assay Development for the AHR Signature in Dermatology
Department: DKTK partner site Essen / Düsseldorf - Klinik für Dermatologie
Code number: 2023-0055
The German Cancer Research Center is the largest biomedical research institution in Germany. With more than 3,000 employees, we operate an extensive scientific program in the field of cancer research.
Together with university partners at seven renowned partner sites, we have established the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK).
At the partner site of DKTK Essen / Düsseldorf the German Cancer Research Center is offering a PhD position for assay development for AHR signature in dermatology.
The PredictAHR project utilizes existing data from the German Cancer Consortium of the tumor entities malignant melanoma, glioma, sarcoma, lung cancer and chronic lymphocytic leukemia and prospectively collects samples that are profiled using high-throughput methods. Our goal is to identify a reduced set of AHR activity markers that are specific to the different tumor entities and allow the development of simple assays for the clinic. Translating the transcriptional AHR signature to proteomics data will enable immunohistochemical evaluation by pathology laboratories, while extension to metabolomics data may enable translation to biological fluids such as blood and urine that can be obtained without surgical intervention. In summary, PredictAHR will investigate the predictive power of the AHR signature in various cancers and develop assays for AHR activity that can be integrated into the clinic.
Job description:
- Cell culture: thaw, culture, split, freeze cells; functional in vitro analyses
- Molecular biology / protein chemistry: PCR, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR, DNA and RNA isolation, protein isolation, Western blots
- Primary animal experimental research on tumor metastasis in a translational research project that also includes human experimental issues in patients with malignant melanoma
- Immunohistology / immunofluorescence: paraffin / cryoembedding, preparation of slides on microtome, photography of stains on microscope, processing of images on computer
- Molecular and flow cytometric study of tumors
- Planning and execution of metabolomics and lipidomics measurements, among others, for the characterization of metastases of malignant melanoma
- Development of new methods for the characterization of metabolites and lipids using modern multidimensional methods (e.g. LC-LC-MS)
- Planning and execution of cell culture experiments
- Statistical evaluation of results
- Documentation and evaluation of research results as well as preparation of publications, lectures, posters
- Preparation of the dissertation within the PhD project
Requirements:
- University degree (Master) in chemistry, food chemistry or biochemistry of at least 8 semesters
- Animal experimental experience (breeding / keeping immunodeficient and immunocompetent mouse lines) and knowledge of basic immunological and molecular biology techniques
- Proficiency in complex multicolor flow cytometry experiments and cell sorting
- Profound knowledge of analytical chemistry (especially in the fields of LC, GC and MS)
- Knowledge of metabolite and lipid analysis as well as bioinformatics is desirable
- High degree of independence, motivation and interest in the development of modern methods and their application in cancer research
We offer:
- Interesting, versatile workplace
- International, attractive working environment
- Campus with modern state-of-the-art infrastructure
- Access to international research networks
- Doctoral student payment including social benefits
- Flexible working hours
- Comprehensive training and mentoring program through the Helmholtz International Graduate School
Important notice:
The DKFZ is subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). As a consequence, only persons who present proof of immunity against measles may work at the DKFZ.
Earliest Possible Start Date: as soon as possible
Duration: The position is limited to 3 years with the possibility of prolongation.
Application Deadline: 08.04.2023
Contact:
Sabine Kaul
Phone +49(0)201/723-2044
Please note that we do not accept applications submitted via email.
