The following part-time position (25 h/week) is to be filled as soon as possible in the Klinik für Neuroonkologie of the University Hospital Bonn:

PhD Student / Doktorand*in – Tumor Microenvironment of Brain Tumors Using Organoid Models (m/f/d)

The position is limited to four years due the project.

Our newly established Experimental Neuro-Oncology group at the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) (PI: Prof. Sevin Turcan) investigates molecular and cellular mechanisms of brain tumor initiation, progression and therapy resistance. A central focus is on how brain tumors interact with and remodel their microenvironment. We combine patient-derived tumor models, brain organoids, advanced imaging and multi-omic approaches to dissect glioma–microenvironment crosstalk and identify actionable vulnerabilities. The PhD project will focus on organoid-based models to study these tumor–microenvironment interactions.

Tasks:

• Establish and maintain patient-derived brain tumor organoids and cerebral organoid models
• Develop and apply co-culture systems to study interactions between glioma cells and microglia, immune cells or astrocytes/neural cells
• Map the 3D spatial architecture of the tumor niche in organoids using advanced imaging and quantitative image analysis
• Test microenvironment-targeting therapies in organoid co-cultures to identify strategies that reprogram the tumor niche and sensitize tumors to treatment
• Document, interpret and present your results in internal lab meetings and contribute to manuscripts and conference presentations

Requirements:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Neuroscience, Biomedicine or a related life science
• Strong interest in brain tumors, tumor microenvironment and organoid/3D culture systems
• Practical experience with mammalian cell culture; experience with 3D cultures, organoids, stem cells or primary cells is a strong plus
• Hands-on skills in at least some of the following: immunofluorescence staining, microscopy, basic molecular biology (e.g. PCR, cloning, Western blot), flow cytometry, or image/data analysis
• High motivation to develop and refine complex experimental systems and to work quantitatively with the resulting data (basic experience with R/Python is a plus but not mandatory)
• Structured, independent and reliable working style; enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration in an international team
• Very good command of English (spoken and written); German skills are an advantage but not required

We offer:

• An interdisciplinary scientific environment at the interface of neuro-oncology, molecular biology, imaging and translational research
• The opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree within a dynamic, internationally oriented group
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, advanced microscopy and modern molecular biology and genomics platforms
• Close integration into collaborative networks within UKB and beyond, including opportunities to interface with computational, imaging and clinical partners
• Responsible and diverse: A position with plenty of room for creativity and responsibility within a supportive and collegial team
• Fair compensation: Pay according to the TV-L EG13 collective agreement, including annual bonus and company pension scheme
• Family-friendly flexibility: Flexible working time models, access to a place in our company daycare center, and programs supporting employees returning from parental leave
• Smart commuting: Excellent connection to the SWB public transport network and the option of an interest-free loan for the purchase of an e-bike
• Supported development: Individual training opportunities through courses, e-learning programs, and coaching sessions
• Structured onboarding: A systematic introduction to your new role and team
• Healthy at work: A wide range of health and wellness programs, plus free membership at the UKB fitness studio
• Employee benefits: Access to discounted offers for employees (corporate benefits)