PhD Student on the topic „Optimizing Brain Tumor Treatment with Radiotherapy: Defining Tumor Microenvironment and Normal Tissue Interactions“

Together with university partners at seven renowned partner sites, we have established the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK).For the DKTK partner site in Dresden we are looking for July 2025 aPhD Student on the topic «Optimizing Brain Tumor Treatment with Radiotherapy: Defining Tumor Microenvironment and Normal Tissue Interactions"Reference number: 2025-0101 Dresden Full-time DKTK Dresden, Translational Radiation OncologyThe group Translational Radiation Oncology represents the liaison between preclinical studies and the research within Clinical Radiation Oncology. The focus is on high-precision technologies, including particle therapy and biological-driven individualization of radiotherapy.Your TasksTo improve therapeutic options for brain cancer patients, this project aims to study the tumor microenvironment and surrounding normal tissue in preclinical models: defining clinical target volumes, understanding biological mechanisms, and identifying combined therapeutic approaches to enhance treatment efficacy and minimize side effects.You will: image tumor and normal tissue alterations using preclinical imaging modalities (Optical Imaging systems, CT, MRI) perform mouse cranial proton and photon irradiations with state-of-the-art image-guided radiation therapy perform multiplex immunofluorescence staining apply and develop image analysis workflows for histological evaluation perform spatial analysis at the cellular level in histological tissues work in an interdisciplinary team with strong expertise in translational research and collaborate with clinical scientists: Radiation Oncology, Pathology, Radiomics, Biostatistics and Mathematical modellingYour Profile Master / Diploma in biology, biotechnology, medical physics or related fields Knowledge in tumor/cell biology desirable Basic skills in mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy and histological techniques would be advantageous Strong interest in translational studies on experimental tumors including readiness to perform in vivo experiments (FELASA B is a plus) Experience or willingness to learn image analysis software (e.g. Fiji ImageJ, ilastik, CellProfiler) as well as programming languages (e.g. R, Python) Strong commitment, motivation and discipline to work independently and efficiently Strong team player with the ability to succeed in a dynamic international environment Proficiency in written and spoken EnglishWe OfferExcellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest levelDoctoral salary with the usual social benefitsFlexible working hoursFamily-friendly working environmentUnleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career ServiceAccess to international research networks30 days of vacation per yearPossibility of part-time workSustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticketOur Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-beingContact:Antje DietrichPhone: +49 351 458 7406The position is limited to 3 years with the possibility of prolongation.Are you interested?Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!Apply nowWe 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.Notice: We are subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Therefore, all our employees must provide proof of immunity against measles. Share this job! Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum | Im Neuenheimer Feld 280 | 69120 Heidelberg | www.dkfz.de