PhD Position in Translational Tumor Immunology

About the role

This PhD position focuses on translational tumor immunology, investigating mechanisms of response and resistance to immune checkpoint blockade in solid tumours, especially head and neck and esophagogastric cancers.

Key responsibilities

• Investigate response and resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoint blockade using spatial proteomics, multiplex imaging and spatial transcriptomics.
• Integrate tissue‑based immune profiles with blood‑based biomarkers, immune repertoires and clinical outcomes for patient stratification.
• Establish patient‑derived 3D tumour models and perform functional tumour‑immune cell experiments.
• Plan and conduct the project, analyse complex datasets, collaborate with clinical and scientific partners, and publish findings.

Required profile

• Master's degree in biology, biomedical sciences, immunology, cancer biology or related life‑science discipline.
• Strong interest in translational cancer research and modern spatial profiling technologies.
• Initiative, scientific curiosity and ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary, international environment.
• Excellent English language skills.

Required skills

• Mammalian cell culture.
• Molecular or cellular biology techniques.
• Experience with flow cytometry.
• Spatial proteomics, multiplex imaging and spatial transcriptomics.
• Quantitative data analysis using R or Python (advantageous).

What we offer

• Attractive salary policy and comprehensive social benefits.
• Discounts for shopping, sport and leisure.
• Support for relocation and housing search.
• 25 vacation days plus 5 flexible days.
• Support for further training, career planning and access to state‑of‑the‑art technologies.