Postdoc : 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 Viral Transformation Mechanisms is seeking for March 2016 a

Postdoc

(Ref-No. 282/2015)

Description:
Meta-analyses of the current literature show increasing evidence that infection with certain cutaneous human papillomaviruses (HPVs) represents an essential cofactor (in conjunction with UV light) for the development of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), especially in immunocompromised individuals like organ transplant recipients (OTR). To prevent this frequent type of cancer in the Caucasian population, we are working on different vaccine strategies against cutaneous PVs. A virus-like particle (VLP) based vaccine has been successfully tested in a preclinical model using the multimammate mouse Mastomys coucha. These mice are unique in developing PV-induced skin tumors, especially after UV irradiation.

The postdoctoral candidate will be involved in planning, performing and evaluating novel cross-protective vaccines under different conditions, e.g. under immunosuppression and/or UV irradiation. The animal model should be also used to understand the molecular and immunological mechanisms of PV-associated skin carcinogenesis. Transcriptomics and proteomics both under in vivo and in vitro conditions should also shed light in the organization of intracellular networks during NMSC formation.

Your profile:
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong molecular and immunological background. A willingness to work with animals and tissues is a prerequisite. The candidate should also have a strong interest in tumor virology and advanced knowledge of molecular/immunological methods. He/she should also have at least one first author publication in a good journal and experience in bioinformatics.