PhD Student in Cellular and Cancer Biology

At the Center for Biological Sciences at Vetmeduni, we are looking for an enthusiastic PhD student (m/f/d) to join the group of Elisa Manieri and develop an exciting project in the field of cellular crosstalk in tumor development. The project will explore the epithelium-fibroblast crosstalk using organoids, single cell RNA-sequencing and ATAC-sequencing, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome engineering and high-resolution imaging. Our goal is to characterize alterations in tumor-adjacent fibroblasts upon epithelial transformation using a multidisciplinary approach, highlighting new tumor vulnerabilities that could be exploited as potential targets of therapy.

The laboratory is embedded in the Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology. The research groups within the department examine a wide range of topics, including infection, immunity and cancer. Excellent, modern research and teaching facilities are available for this purpose. German language is not a requirement.

Relevant publications: Manieri et al. Nature Communications 2023; McCarthy et al. Cell Stem Cell 2020

Your Profile

o Master’s degree in a relevant subject, e.g. molecular or cellular biology

o Profound laboratory experience in basic molecular biology and biochemistry (PCR, molecular cloning…)

o Extensive experience with cell culture techniques (culture of adherent cell lines, primary cells, etc.)

o Strong written and verbal communication skills in English (B2 or higher)

o Self-motivated, enthusiastic and eager to learn

What we offer

o An exciting project exploring cellular crosstalk in tumor development using cutting edge technologies

o State-of-the-art facilities

o A collaborative and supportive team environment offering excellent research and development opportunities in a meaningful, inspiring, and international setting.

o Personal and professional training and development opportunities

o Diversity and family-friendly university culture

Applications

Please submit your application in English, noting the reference number 2024/0241, by e-mail to bewerbungen(at)vetmeduni.ac.at. Please do not forget to include the reference number or we will be unable to relate your application to the correct vacancy announcement.

Application documents must include:

o Contact information

o Letter of application with a brief description of research interest

o Curriculum vitae, including information on internship and other relevant activities

o Further documents to prove the required education, qualifications and experience described as necessary in the vacancy announcement (University transcripts and diplomas in their original language as well as in English)

o Names and contact information of two references

Application deadline: January 31st, 2025.

For further information please contact Dr. Elisa Manieri (elisa.manieri(at)vetmeduni.ac.at).