Postdoc-position Translational Microbiome Research in CAR-T Therapy (EN)
Exzellenzcluster CMFI | Ab sofort
To be filled as soon as possible.
The Lab of Translational Microbiome Research (Head: C. Stein-Thoeringer) at the University of Tübingen, part of the Cluster of Excellence “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections” (CMFI), studies the cross-talk between gut microbes, pathogens, the immune system, and environmental factors in cancer development, therapy, and infections. Our goal is to understand how individual bacteria, microbial consortia, and microbial perturbations (e.g., through diet or antibiotics) influence inflammatory responses and metabolic disturbances to drive carcinogenesis and metastasis in preclinical models. We also investigate how cancer therapies interact with the gut microbiome in patients and mouse models, exploring causal relationships through direct host-microbe interactions or microbial metabolites.
We combine advanced wet-lab and bioinformatics approaches, including culture-omics, high-resolution metagenome sequencing, and multi-omics profiling of the host’s immune system and metabolome. Causal microbe-host interactions are further examined using (gnotobiotic) mouse models. On the translational side, we conduct clinical studies to analyze patient microbiomes, disease associations, and environmental influences, as well as microbiome-based interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Specific Research Project
We are offering a 2-year postdoc position (E13 TV-L, 100%) in our well-equipped, state-of-the-art research environment at the new M3 (Mikrobiom-Metabolom-Malignom) Research Institute at the University of Tübingen, with the option of extension.
This position focuses on experimental work validating host-microbiome interactions to explore the microbiome’s role in CAR-T cell therapy against. It provides an excellent opportunity to gain experience in translational microbiome research and build a strong scientific profile for a career in academia, industry, or clinical research.
Candidate Profile
We seek a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in microbiome research and host-microbe interactions, immunology, particularly in the cancer context. The ideal candidate is passionate about translating fundamental microbiome findings into clinical applications at the intersection of microbiology, immunology, and oncology.
Key Responsibilities
- Investigate the mechanistic role of the microbiome in CAR-T cell therapy and cancer
- Isolate and characterize disease-associated microbial strains
- Analyze microbial metabolism and immune modulation
- Develop and optimize in vitro models to study microbe – immune cell interactions
- Contribute to biomarker discovery and microbiome-based therapies
- Collaborate with clinical partners
- Supervise students and research assistants
- Contribute to grant applications and high-impact publications
- Present findings at national and international conferences
Requirements / Qualifications
- PhD (or equivalent) in microbiology, biology, immunology, or a related field
- Strong background in research on host-microbe interactions, immunology, microbiology
- Experience in classical and molecular microbiology techniques, immunology and mouse work
- Experience with immunological assays (FACS etc.) and cell lines
- Strong publication record and demonstrated research productivity (first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals)
- Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English (written and spoken)
- High attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and excellent time management
- Self-motivated, well-organized, and able to work independently and collaboratively in an
Applications or questions about the position should be sent to Christoph Stein-Thoeringer (christoph.stein-thoeringer@
uni-tuebingen.
de).
Please send your application as a single PDF file that includes: a cover/motivation letter; your CV/biosketch; contact information for two references; and university transcripts. For more information, please also visit us:
The University of Tübingen is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong institutional commitment to excellence through diversity. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to gender, race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or age.
The review of applications will begin in Feb 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.