Project Background
Central nervous system (CNS) infiltration remains a major clinical challenge in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Current treatment strategies are often associated with considerable toxicity and long-term side effects. This project aims to uncover mechanisms that enable leukemia cells to enter and persist in the CNS, and to identify potential therapeutic vulnerabilities within this protected niche. The project combines patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models with molecular and functional approaches, including CRISPR-based gene perturbation techniques, to study leukemia biology in a CNS-specific context and explore novel therapeutic strategies.


Your Tasks

• Apply gene perturbation approaches, including CRISPR-based screening, to investigate molecular mechanisms of CNS infiltration together with the partner lab in Frankfurt
• Conduct in vivo studies using pediatric ALL xenograft models in immunocompromised mice 
• Analyze gene function and molecular pathways involved in CNS infiltration
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary research teams in Ulm and Frankfurt
• Present your findings at national and international scientific meetings
• Prepare research articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals

We Offer

• A high-impact, translational PhD project in a cooperative setting between two leading university hospitals
• Close supervision by experienced mentors at both sites (Ulm and Frankfurt)
• Access to modern lab infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies
• Possibility of integration into the PhD program in Molecular Medicine at Ulm University
• Opportunity to participate in conferences and workshops
• A dynamic, collegial, and international research environment closely connected to clinical practice
• Employment under the collective agreement of the public service of the federal states (TV-L)

Your Profile

• Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Biology, Molecular Medicine, Biomedicine, or a related field
• Strong interest in translational cancer research and pediatric oncology
• Practical experience in molecular biology techniques; experience with in vivo mouse models is a plus
• High level of motivation, independence, and reliability
• Willingness to spend time in the partner laboratory in Frankfurt for method development
• Team player with excellent communication skills in English
• Experience in functional genomics or gene perturbation approaches is a plus