PhD position in T-cell receptor signaling in Lymphoma

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to join the team of Lukas Kenner at the Clinical Institute of Pathology at the Medical University Vienna, Austria.

This is a FWF funded project where we investigate Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) which is a peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL). In contrast to other PTCL, ALCL rarely express the T-cell receptor (TCR) on the surface of tumour cells. The reasons for this and its relationship to the pathogenesis of ALCL remain unknown. We have shown that 50% of ALCL have normal TRab rearrangements that are compatible with the expression of a functional cell surface TCR. The remaining 50% carry rearrangements of TR genes that would not normally lead to the expression of a functional TCR indicative of abnormal thymic events in these patients. In both cases, the TCR is rarely expressed on the cell surface, suggesting that there are two pathways towards cellular transformation: antigen-dependent via chronic stimulation of the TCR, and antigen-independent. Applying unique model systems of ALCL, we will study the mechanisms driving the development of this malignancy to elucidate how this cancer arises.

The methods used in this project will include next generation sequencing, RNA/DNA and protein based methods and tissue culture work.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Master’s degree in Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field.

• Standard molecular biology methods (PCR, Sequencing, Cloning, Western Blot, RNA and DNA isolation)

• Strong background in preclinical research including experiments with cells and animals (mice).

• Lab management and organization.

• Good communication skills in English.

• Motivation to work in an international team.

The position is available immediately. The salary will be based on PhD student rates of the Austrian Science Foundation (FWF).

Application documents (motivation letter, Curriculum Vitae, and 2 letters of reference) should be sent to Lukas Kenner: Lukas.kenner@meduniwien.ac.at.