Doctoral Researcher - CAR T Cell Therapy Development

Reference number: 2026-0131

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Clinical Cooperation Unit (CCU) Applied Tumor Immunity

The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) is one of Europe’s largest cancer research centers. “Research for a life without cancer" is the mission of our world-class scientists and all our team members.

We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and search 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.

The Clinical Cooperation Unit (CCU) Applied Tumor Immunity is seeking, as of September 2026, a

  The immune system influences the efficacy of many therapies and interventions. Thus, the identification of crucial immunological parameters, such as novel biomarkers, is of great importance. The aim of the CCU Applied Tumor Immunity is the characterization of immune responses directed against the tumor and the transfer of these findings into clinical applications. A particular focus of our research is the analysis of immunological interactions between tumor cells and host or immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and periphery to identify predictive biomarkers and develop novel immunotherapeutic approaches for solid tumors (e.g., TCR T cells, CAR T cells, bispecific antibodies and peptide vaccines).

We are seeking a highly motivated and result-oriented PhD candidate to join our dynamic research team working on a DKFZ-MOST (Israel’s Ministry of Science and Technology) funded project focused on immune engineering of T cells. The successful candidate will generate CAR T cells directed against the breast cancer antigen NY-BR-1 by an innovative approach using site-directed DNA recombinases. We aim to identify and validate key factors in cellular composition and DNA recombination tools to manufacture a superior CAR-T product that will be ready to enter the clinical trial stage.

Your Tasks

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct experiments, data collection, and data analysis
• Collaborate with other team members and our partners at the Tel Aviv University in Israel to contribute to ongoing research efforts
• Conduct comprehensive literature reviews to gain an in-depth understanding of the research area and identify knowledge gaps.
• Assist in writing research reports, conference abstracts, and scientific papers
• Attend and present research findings at (inter)institutional research seminars, consortium meetings and international conferences to disseminate research outcomes and interact with the scientific community

Anticipated tasks for the project:

• Acquisition and cultivation of naïve T cells from various sources, e.g., cord blood
• Analyze genomic integration sites of lentiviral systems compared to VDJ recombinant techniques and determine novel loci
• Perform in vitro studies using primary T cell culture in autologous tumor settings, as well as in vivo experiments employing state-of-the-art preclinical systems

Your Profile

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, such as cancer biology, immunology, biotechnology biomedical engineering, or related disciplines
• Fulfil all academic requirements set by the DKFZ PhD Program, please refer to: Admission Requirements of DKFZ PhD Program
• Strong background in molecular and cellular biology techniques, including high-dimensional flow cytometry, cloning techniques, gene knockouts and cell culture
• Experience in non-viral DNA recombination is highly desirable
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Experience in animal experimentation is a plus
• Enthusiasm for onco-immunology and immune-engineering and the drive to contribute to scientific advancements.

The project is part of a high-profile collaboration which is jointly funded by the DKFZ and Israel’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST). It therefore, provides access to cutting-edge technologies, enables learning in a multi-cultural environment and opens exceptional opportunities for training and career development.

Interested candidates should submit a CV, cover letter, academic transcripts via the online application portal.

We Offer

Are you interested?

 Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!

 ​Duration: The position is initially limited to 3 years.

Application Deadline: July 10, 2026

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.

Please also note that we cannot return applications submitted by post.

 

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.

Notice: We are subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Therefore, all our employees must provide proof of immunity against measles.

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