PhD Student in Quantitative Spatial Cancer biology research group

(We are targeting applicants of all genders)
Full time | limited up to 4 years | Announcement number: 326-2024

We are seeking a motivated PhD Student to join our „Quantitative Spatial Cancer Biology" research group at the Dr. Senckenberg Institute of PathologyMSNZ Frankfurt, an excellence program supporting careers in Translational Cancer Research (funded by the German Cancer Aid).

The lab, headed by Dr. Konstantinos Kokkaliaris, specializes in hematopoietic stem-cell biology and bone marrow tissue organization in health and cancer. We use innovate single-cell protein profiling technologies including cutting-edge multiplexed tissue imaging, multicolor flow cytometry and mass cytometry. The focus of the lab is to better understand tissue organization in homeostasis, cancer and aging and further develop multiplex tissue imaging modalities.

Publications:
Kokkaliaris KD**, et al, Adult blood stem cell localization reflects the abundance of reported bone marrow niche cell types and their combinations. Blood. 2020; 136(20):2296-2307. *co-corresponig author, Cover story
Coutu DL'. Kokkaliaris KD*. Kunz L* and Schroeder T. Multicolor quantitative confocal imaging cytometry. Nature Methods 2018; 15:39-46 *co-first authors
Coutu DL*. Kokkaliaris KD*. Kunz L and Schroeder T Three-dimensional map of non-hematopoietic bone marrow cells and molecules. Nature Biotechnology 2017, 35(12) 1202-1210. - co-first authors, Cover Story

Your role

• Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) is a common age-related condition characterized by the outgrowth of mutated hematopoietic clones which can lead to life-threatening malignancies. CH is caused by mutations in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and is accelerated in individuals with ischemic hearth failure. This DFG funded project aims to define the key bone marrow components and cell-extrinsic signais involved in promoting CH following hearth failure. Using established animals models, patient cohorts and cutting-edge single-cell quantitative biology, we will uncover the underlying mechanism of targeted candidate signals from bonw marrow niches. Our goal is to leverage those findings towarsds the design of novel therapeutic strategies to decelerate outgrowth of mutated hematopoietic clones.

Who you are

• Master’s degree in Life Sciences or equivalent
• Basic experience in laboratory techniques (i.e. molecular biology)
• Background in immunofluorescence microscopy and hematopoiesis are a plus
• Passion for discovery, collaborative spirit & good communication skills
• Good knowledge of spoken and written English
• Due to legal regulation, a valid proof of measles immunity / measles vaccination is required.

What we offer

• Collective agreement: In addition to an attractive salary based on a collective agreement (65% E13) with an annual special payment, you benefit from long-term security through company pension schemes
• Mobility: Free public transport in all Hessen (Free State Ticket Hessen)
• Campus: Our attractive university hospital campus offers a modern cafeteria, various cafes, and opportunities to rest in numerous green spaces. A walk on the riverside of the Main offers relaxation during breaks
• Work-Life-Balance: Part-time employment is possible, we offer childcare in our daycare center (if you have any questions, please contact Ms. Häfner at 069 / 6301 83863), child care during holidays
• Health Promotion: Benefit from our attractive health offers. We offer regular online and face-to-face courses on nutrition, relaxation, sports and excercies. 
• Professional development: Internal and external training for your professional development

Women are underrepresented in these positions at the University Hospital Frankfurt. Applications from women are therefore particularly welcome. Disabled applicants are preferred if they have the same personal and professional qualifications.

Join our team

Use the time until April 28, 2024 to apply. Please submit your online application including a  a possible starting time and your salary expectations. For further information on the position, please contact Dr. Konstantinos Kokkaliaris, E-Mail: kokkaliaris@med.uni-frankfurt.de.