PhD Student in Modeling Pediatric Cancer using Cerebellar Organoids
Reference number: 2024-0369
- Heidelberg
- Full-time
- Developmental Origins of Pediatric Cancer
“Research for a life without cancer" is our mission at the German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts – whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.
For a project with the title "Novel models of medulloblastoma using cerebellar organoids" the Junior Group "Developmental Origins of Pediatric Cancer" is seeking a
Medulloblastoma, an embryonal malignancy of the cerebellum, accounts for an unacceptably high proportion of cancer-related deaths among infants and children. The WHO recognizes at least four molecular groups of medulloblastoma: WNT, SHH, Group 3 and Group 4, each characterized by distinct molecular landscapes and clinical features. Genomic analyses of large patient cohorts have revealed substantial heterogeneity within these molecular groups, and distinct subgroups within the parental molecular groups have been identified. To improve outcomes and quality of life for survivors, (sub)group-specific treatments are urgently needed, necessitating the generation of faithful and well-characterized preclinical models. Despite advancements in genetically engineered mouse models, current models are heavily biased towards specific subgroups and genotypes (i.e., predominantly SHH and MYC-driven Group 3). The paucity of accurate human MB models for investigating the mechanistic basis of Group 3/4 MB pathogenesis represents a significant hurdle that must be overcome to foster the development, evaluation, and future implementation of curative treatments for affected children.
For more information about our junior group, please see: https://www.dkfz.de/en/entwicklungsbiologische-urspruenge-paediatrischer-krebserkrankungen/index.php
Your Tasks
The goal of the PhD project is to build, characterize, and rationally exploit a technically innovative platform of novel preclinical medulloblastoma models derived from human cerebellar organoids, and to determine how different oncodrivers alter developmental trajectories and initiate tumorigenesis in vitro. Given the rarity of pediatric brain tumors and the difficulty in maintaining primary patient tissue in the lab, this project will provide us with the opportunity to expand to new tumor types and systems, which was previously not possible. The starting date is flexible.
Your Profile
This project uses iPSC technologies and cerebellar organoids and will also require 20-30% mouse work. Experience in brain development or cancer mechanisms is desired, but not required. Practical experience in cell culture (ideally iPSC or organoid technologies), molecular biology, and/or animal work is desired, but not required. The student should also be highly motivated, function well both in a diverse, international team and independently.
Please submit a cover letter/letter of motivation describing why you'd like to join our lab and this project specifically, your CV, MSc/BSc transcripts and the contact information for 2 references via our online application tool.
We Offer
Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
Access to international research networks
Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
30 days of vacation per year
Flexible working hours
Possibility of part-time work
Family-friendly working environment
Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being
Are you interested?
Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!
Dr. Lena Kutscher
Phone: +49 6221/42-4622
We are convinced that an innovative research and working environment thrives on the diversity of its employees. Therefore, we welcome applications from talented people, regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical ability, religion and age. People with severe disabilities are given preference if they have the same aptitude.
