PhD Student (Research Fellow Junior) (all genders) - Developmental Neurobiology and Paediatric Neuro-oncology

Main tasks

At the Research Institute Children's Cancer Center at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, a position as a graduate student (PhD student) is available in the research group developmental neurobiology and paediatric neurooncology (head Prof. Dr. Ulrich Schüller, ) as of 01.08.2025. In principle, a later start is conceivable. Participation in the structured PhD programme of the faculty is possible.

You can expect a motivated and dynamic team of medical doctors, natural scientists, bioinformaticians, technical assistants and students who are investigating childhood nervous system tumors within the framework of different projects and with different approaches.

An exciting project awaits you in which we investigate the molecular mechanisms in medulloblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor in children. We will focus on developmental mechanisms of the cerebellum which will pave the way for identification of new therapy targets. For this purpose, modern technologies like single cell RNA sequencing and DNA methylation profiling as well as different in vitro and in vivo methods will be employed.

For this work, you can expect a helpful team, a detailed introduction and appropriate supervision throughout the entire period of the doctorate.

This is a parttime position with 65% percent of the regular weekly working hours and is initially limited to three years as part of a third-party funded research project and in accordance with the WissZeitVG.

Your Profile

• Excellent scientific degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in natural sciences, bioinformatics or a related subject
• Strong interest in molecular science and high motivation to work on an ambitious project
• Excellent collaborative teamwork with strengths in communication and independent thinking
• Knowledge of basic methods of molecular biology
• Ideally programming skills (e.g. R, Python) and experience with omics data
• Ability to prepare, present and publish scientific data
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
• Candidates with equivalent skills and experience and high interest in the research area described are also welcome to apply

Immunity status

Please note that employment is contingent upon proof of immunization or immunity against the measles virus, in accordance with applicable legal and medical requirements. Documentation (e.g., vaccination certificate) must be provided before employment begins.

Our Offer

• DFG funded, innovative research project including modern technologies
• Close mentoring by experienced postdocs and PI
• Retreats, guest lectures, and labmeetings
• Comprehensive onboarding and open knowledge exchange within the team
• Attractive compensation according to TVöD/VKA
• Secure employment with meaningful work and respectful collaboration
• Comprehensive onboarding and open knowledge exchange within the team
• Extensive training and further education programs at our UKE Academy for Education and Careers
• Opportunities to contribute to our “UKE INside” personnel policy through cross-professional and cross-hierarchical projects
• Sustainable travel: subsidies for the Deutschlandticket as a job ticket, and Dr. Bike bicycle service
• Family-friendly working environment: cooperation on childcare, free vacation childcare, advice for employees with relatives in need of care
• Excellent health, wellness, and sports programs
• A wide range of dining options in our staff restaurant, with additional choices available at the “Health Kitchen” cafés, bistros, and an on-site supermarket