PhD Position in the field of Sphingolipid Biology and Disease

„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 research group “Lipid Pathobiochemistry“, headed by PD Dr. Roger Sandhoff, is currently offering a PhD Position in the field of Sphingolipid Biology and Disease.

The research group “Lipid Pathobiochemistry“ investigates the endogenous and pathological functions of sphingolipids. Sphingolipids are a complex class of membrane lipids, but contain also some important extra and intracellular signaling molecules. The cell-specific sphingolipid patterns found depend on cell differentiation, cell activation, but also cell transformation, e. g. to cancer cells. The ganglioside GD2, a glycosphingolipid, for example is expressed quite selectively on various tumor cells and is prominent in neuroblastoma. Sphingolipids in turn modulate cellular processes like proliferation, type of differentiation or activation, and can also influence the potential of tumor cells to metastasize. We investigate their functions with the help of genetically engineered in vitro and in vivo models with functional assays. To determine the specific composition of sphingolipids in our model systems, we have developed chromatographic and mass spectrometric-based methods in our lab.

Our research group is embedded into the department “Tumor Metabolism and Micro­environment” headed by Prof. Dr. Almut Schulze. Progress report seminars and Journal Club are held together. The department is part of the research topic “Cell and Tumor Biology” with common scientific retreats and access to the highly sophisticated scientific infrastructure of the German Cancer Research Center.

• Investigation of the impact of pathologically disturbed sphingolipid metabolism on the viability and function of cancer cells and normal cells in vitro and in vivo
• Characterization of pathological sphingolipid derivatives
• Preparation of scientific presentations and publications

• Master's degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry or related disciplines
• Proficiency in genetic engineering and biochemical methods, assay development, and cell culture as well as mass spectrometric analytics are desired
• Good knowledge of biochemistry
• FELASA certificate is of advantage
• Excellent command of written and oral English with proof of proficiency (not required for applicants from EU and 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