2 Postdocs (m/f) : Heidelberg, Germany

The German Cancer Research Center is the largest biomedical research institution in Germany. With more than 2,700 employees, we operate an extensive scientific program in the field of cancer research.

The Division of Molecular Genome Analysis is seeking for June 2014

2 Postdocs (m/f)

(Ref-No. 64/2014)

Description:
The Division of Molecular Genome Analysis at the DKFZ aims to understand the complex molecular mechanisms that regulate signalling networks controlling cancer development, metastasis, and drug response as prerequisite to advance personalized treatment. Visit http://www.dkfz.de/en/mga to learn more about the group.

Within a new BMBF-funded project (e:Med program) we are out to understand the complex interplay between different ERBB-receptors with regard to the activation of downstream signalling to ultimately optimize personalized therapy decisions in breast cancer. In collaboration with clinicians, systems biologists and industry we focus on drug response towards new targeted therapeutics directed against ERBB-receptors using in vitro and in vivo systems. Based on proteomic profiles of clinical specimens obtained from patients with early breast cancer as well as metastatic disease, cell line models will be generated for time-resolved measurements of drug response. Our focus is on new therapeutic antibodies inhibiting EGFR and ERBB3, respectively, and pertuzumab, a therapeutic antibody directed against ERBB2. Quantitative proteomic data obtained by reverse phase protein arrays (RPPA) will present the basis to develop mathematical models of drug response and to identify predictive biomarker signatures. Theoretical models will be developed by systems biologists to identify putative targets for therapeutic intervention, involving an iterative process that includes experimental validation of model predictions in vitro and in vivo. The project aims to define optimized treatment concepts based on the protein profile of an individual tumor as well as to identify strategies suited to overcome drug resistance to improve patient stratification and disease outcome. We seek to employ two Postdoc-level scientists to realize different aspects of this project:

The first candidate (Korf) will be responsible for the proteome profiling of clinical tissues using RPPA and a multiplexed immunoassay platform. In parallel, the candidate will generate quantitative time-resolved perturbation data by in vitro experimentation that will serve as a basis to model drug response mechanisms.

The second candidate (Wiemann) will generate isogenic and induced resistance cell line models reflecting the HER2-low subtype of breast cancer. She/he will characterize these models (molecular genetic, epigenetic, gene expression) and challenge them by knock-down and overexpression of key molecules as well as with drugs in vitro and in vivo. Phenotypic effects will be recorded using a range of assays, in order to test the mathematical predictions from systems biological modelling.

Your profile:
We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a vivid interest in cellular signalling and translating in vitro-concepts to clinical application. Applicants should have graduated in a life sciences subject and have a strong background in quantitative proteomics as well as immunoassay development or cell and molecular biology, respectively. Experiences in large-scale experimentation and data analysis, handling of clinical samples, microdissection and/or immuno¬histochemistry, cell culture, molecular biology techniques, programming skills and/or R-language knowledge would be a plus. The candidates should enjoy working in an international and interdisciplinary environment that involves clinical aspects as well as theoretical approaches. Submit your complete application with cover letter, curriculum vitae, high school diploma, university diploma, PhD certificate, thesis summary, and contact information of two references via the DKFZ online application system.

The position is limited for 2 years with the possibility of
extension. The position can in principle be part-time.

For further information please contact
Dr. Ulrike Korf, phone 06221 42-4765 or
Prof. Dr. Stefan Wiemann, phone 06221 42-4702.

The German Cancer Research Center is committed to increase the percentage of female scientists and encourages female applicants to apply. Among candidates of equal aptitude and qualifications, a person with disabilities will be given preference.

To apply for a position please use our online application portal (www.dkfz.de/jobs).

We ask for your understanding that we cannot return application documents that are sent to us by post (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, Personal- und Sozialwesen, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg) and that we do not accept applications submitted via email. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.