PhD Student in Lipid Metabolism in Cancer

„Research for a life without cancer“ is our mission at the German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts – whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.

The Division of Tumor Metabolism and Microenvironment is seeking for the next possible date a PhD Student in Lipid Metabolism in Cancer.

Reference number: 2024-0372

Altered metabolism is a hallmark of cancer and metabolic reprogramming in cancer supports the synthesis of macromolecules for cell growth and proliferation. However, it also generates selective vulnerabilities that can be exploited for cancer therapy.

Our group is interested in understanding how oncogenic signalling networks induce metabolic reprogramming in cancer. We have previously demonstrated a link between activation of the PI3-kinase/Akt/mTORC1 signalling axis and the control of lipid biosynthesis in cancer cells. The induction of lipid synthesis is crucial for the growth of cancer cells. More recently, it is emerging that altered lipid metabolism contributes to multiple cancer phenotypes, including cell survival, cell migration, cell-cell communication and immune interactions (Röhrig and Schulze, Nature Reviews Cancer, 2016).

To identify metabolic genes that are particularly important for the growth and survival of cancer cells, we apply functional genomic screening technologies (RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9). These are combined with cell culture systems that recreate the environmental conditions of the tumour microenvironment (3D culture, hypoxia, physiological media). We also apply direct in vivo screening approaches using transposon-based gene transfer. In addition, we perform targeted metabolomics and metabolic flux analysis with stable isotope labelled compounds to investigate the metabolic wiring in cancer cells.

• Determination of the impact of different oncogenic drivers and tumor-like environmental constraints on lipid droplet heterogeneity
• Analysis of the role of lipid droplets in stress resistance using cell-based models
• Investigation of the role of lipid metabolism in tumorigensis using a mouse model of liver cancer
• Contribution to the training and teaching activities of the division
• Preparation of scientific presentations and publications

• Master's degree in biology, biochemistry or related disciplines
• Previous experience in molecular biology and biochemical techniques
• Good knowledge of biochemistry
• FELASA certificate is an advantage
• Excellent command of written and oral English with proof of language proficiency (not required for applicants from EU or North America)

• Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
• Access to international research networks
• Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of part-time work
• Family-friendly working environ­ment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
• Our Corporate Health Manage­ment Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being