PhD student (f/m/x) for the study of microbial regulation of colorectal cancer development

We have previously demonstrated important contributions of the microbiota to colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression (Peuker et al., Immunity 2022, Nat. Med. 2016). In this project, we aim to further dissect microbiota-dependent pathways that regulate CRC progression and metastasis and to study age-dependent effects on CRC progression. You will be working with mouse models of orthotopic CRC development, including gnotobiotic mice, to study microbial contributions to CRC progression at different host ages. Furthermore, you will work with primary human and murine intestinal organoids in 2D and 3D co-cultures to study host-microbial interactions at the cellular level. To identify underlying molecular mechanisms and pathways, scRNA/snRNA and spatial RNA sequencing, metagenomic sequencing, and metabolomic studies will be performed. The long-term goal of this project is to identify druggable host-microbial interactions which promote CRC progression.

Candidates hold a Master degree (or equivalent) in Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Animal Science, or any related fields in biological sciences. Candidates ideally have expertise in the work with mice and basic microbiology and cell culture techniques. They are open minded, active and have a good command of the English language (oral and written).

The position offers an excellent opportunity to join a group of enthusiastic researchers in a cross-disciplinary environment. The position is integrated into the federally funded (BMBF) consortium “Microbiome-based prevention of early-onset colorectal cancer” (Mi-EOCRC; Speaker: Prof. Zeissig, UMG, www.mikrobiota-darmkrebs.de).

Payment is according to the wage agreement of the civil service TV-L (65% of E13). Please note that there are no additional postgraduate degree fees required for international candidates.