PhD position – Immunotherapy/Optical CRISPR Screens/Spatial Transcriptomics

Our group uses advanced genetic engineering and high-throughput CRISPR screens to improve CAR- and TCR-based immunotherapies. This project explores how highly effective anti-tumor immune cells can be identified and enhanced to better fight cancer. By combining functional screening (e.g., genome-wide CRISPR screens), cutting-edge cell engineering (e.g., AAV-based knockins, base editing), and innovative imaging and sequencing technologies (e.g., NIS-seq, spatial transcriptomics/proteomics), we aim to uncover key features of the most powerful anti-tumor T cells (“elite” immune cells) and translate these insights into next-generation immunotherapies.
The work will include a large variety of experimental methods and models (in vitro and in vivo), in close collaboration with the groups of Prof. Dr. Adelheid Cerwenka (Department of Immunobiochemistry, Medical Faculty Mannheim of Heidelberg University), Prof. Dr. Joachim Spatz (Department of Cellular Biophysics, Max Planck Institute), Prof. Dr. Nina Papavasiliou (Division of Immune Diversity, DKFZ), Prof. Dr. Michael Platten (Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuroimmunology and Brain Tumor Immunology at DKFZ and Department of Neurology at the University Medical Center Mannheim), and Dr. Vibor Laketa (Infectious Diseases Imaging Platform, UKHD). Together, the project seeks to define and build next-generation immune cells with enhanced therapeutic potential.

Your Tasks

• Establishing new experimental protocols and optimizing technologies (e.g., NIS-seq, spatial CRISPR screens)
• Working on computational approaches to read out CRISPR screens, imaging and sequencing data (e.g., spatial transcriptomics/proteomics)
• Designing and performing complex experiments involving a large number of methods (e.g., cloning, CRISPR/Cas9, viral transduction, AAV generation, flow cytometry, microfluidics systems, next-generation sequencing, microscopy, xenograft and syngeneic models, primary cell culture, functional analyses such as cytokine release, proliferation, cytotoxicity assays etc.)
• Staying up to date with scientific literature
• Presenting your research on a regular basis within the group, the DKFZ/KiTZ and externally
• Preparing grants, patents, and publications

Your Profile

• Completed studies with a diploma or master’s degree in biology, bioengineering, biomedical science, biochemistry, bioinformatics, or other relevant fields
• Previous experience in coding and single-cell or spatial transcriptomics/proteomics is preferred
• Excellent communication skills and social competence
• Team player who is motivated to closely work with collaboration partners within the institute and beyond
• Strong laboratory and writing skills
• Willingness to lead and perform in vivo studies
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
• High level of enthusiasm, motivation, and responsibility
• Deep interest in planning, conducting, and analyzing experiments in a systematic and independent way
• Effective time management and organizational skills

Please submit a motivation letter (1 page) and a CV (including a publication list and contact information of two references) in one single PDF.

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!

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

Application Deadline: October 15, 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.