Senior Postdoc for the Division of Personalized Immunotherapies

Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum DKFZ • Other • Mainz • 11h ago

“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.

The Helmholtz Institute HI-TRON is a collaboration of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) with the Research Institute for Translational Oncology at the University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (TRON gGmbH), the University Medical Center Mainz and the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz. The goal of the partnership is to develop effective immunotherapies and to identify novel biomarkers for assessing the effectiveness of treatment.

To strengthen the HI-TRON team in Mainz, we are seeking a skilled and motivated Senior Postdoc for the Division of Personalized Immunotherapies.

Reference number: 2024-0329

The Division of Personalized Immunotherapy (headed by Prof. Dr. Özlem Türeci) at HI-TRON Mainz is looking for a senior postdoc with a strong background in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation and a passion for developing innovative platforms. The successful candidate will be instrumental in advancing fundamental knowledge and creating novel technologies to enable cell-specific biomolecule delivery.

Lead the development and optimization of LNP formulation for cell-specific biomolecule delivery, including high-throughput screening of lipid compositions and formulation parameters
Develop and apply methods for LNP purification and characterization
Apply in vitro and in vivo models to assess biodistribution, efficiency, toxicity, and cell-specific LNP uptake
Lead the development of LNP targeting strategies using ligand conjugation, peptides, or antibodies for cell / tissue-specific delivery
Present research findings internally and externally (national and international conferences) and publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals
Identify new research directions, develop grant proposals, and contribute to securing external funding

Master's degree and PhD in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, bio- or chemical engineering, or related fields
Extensive experience in LNP formulation methods, including hands-on experience with microfluidic devices, and targeted delivery strategies, including bioconjugation techniques
Deep knowledge in nanoparticle purification (e.g., size-exclusion chromatography, ultracentrifugation, and dialysis), and characterization (e.g., dynamic light scattering, and Cryo-EM)
Strong background in relevant in vitro and in vivo models and approaches for evaluating key parameters of nanoparticles, such as efficacy, biodistribution, and toxicity
Proven publication record in high-impact journals related to biological therapeutics and nanomedicine
Meticulous, quality-focused, and able to work independently while consistently meeting deadlines with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency
Strong written and oral communication skills in English with effective interpersonal skills that foster teamwork and collaboration

Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments
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
Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being
Develop your full potential: access to the DKFZ International Postdoc Program and DKFZ Career Service with targeted offers for your personal development to further develop your talents

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