PhD Candidate in Neutrophil Functional Profiling and Melanoma Immune Regulation

About the Institute

The Leibniz Institute for Analytical Sciences - ISAS - e.V. focuses on developing efficient analytical methods for health research, contributing to advancements in prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of diseases such as cardiovascular conditions and cancer. Through interdisciplinary approaches—combining biology, chemistry, computer science, medicine, pharmacology, and physics—ISAS drives progress in precision medicine. The institute is publicly funded by Germany's Federal Republic and its states and is part of the Leibniz Association.

Position Overview

We seek a motivated PhD candidate for the Biofluorescence Research Group to conduct advanced research on neutrophil functional profiling related to melanoma immune regulation and responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI).

Primary Responsibilities

• Design and perform experimental studies assessing neutrophil functions in melanoma immune contexts, including migration, phagocytosis, and reactive oxygen species production.
• Develop and standardize assays for analyzing neutrophil functionality using primary human samples.
• Conduct few-cell proteomics to deeply characterize neutrophil subsets at the molecular level.
• Utilize multicolor flow cytometry for profiling peripheral blood mononuclear cells and other immune populations.
• Apply live-cell imaging and advanced microscopy techniques to investigate dynamic immune cell behaviors.
• Plan and carry out stimulation and inhibition experiments to unravel signaling pathways regulating neutrophil functions within melanoma environments.
• Collaborate with computational scientists to process, analyze, interpret, and visualize experimental data.

Candidate Profile

• Completed diploma or master’s degree in molecular biology, cancer biology, immunology, cell biology, bioinformatics, translational medicine, or closely related fields.
• Practical experience with molecular and cellular biology methods; hands-on exposure to functional immune cell assays, especially involving neutrophils or myeloid lineages, is advantageous.
• Strong passion for melanoma biology, tumor immunology, immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors, translational cancer research, and tumor-immune interactions.
• Familiarity with cell culture, flow cytometry, microscopy, proteomic workflows, or multidimensional immune profiling is desirable.
• Knowledge of bioinformatics or biostatistical analysis is a plus but not essential.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams, possessing excellent organizational and analytical skills.
• Highly motivated, scientifically curious, dependable, creative, and a team player eager to engage in a cooperative research environment.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

What We Offer

• A well-defined research project with diverse training and support opportunities within ISAS and the Leibniz Association frameworks.
• Excellent scientific training and development in a vibrant international environment with a dynamic and professional team.
• Access to cutting-edge technologies including few-cell proteomics, high-dimensional flow cytometry, and advanced microscopy platforms.
• Integration into an interdisciplinary, globally recognized, translational cancer immunology research network.
• Opportunities to present research findings at international conferences and participate in specialized workshops.
• Numerous options for further training and professional development.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility for mobile work, and attractive social benefits.
• Family-friendly infrastructure including family service support.

Additional Information

The institute assists non-resident applicants in securing accommodation and dealing with administrative formalities. Applications from individuals with disabilities are encouraged. ISAS is committed to equal opportunities and especially encourages applications from women.

This is a part-time position (65%) starting on October 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2030. Compensation is based on the German TV-L pay scale, group 13. The limited contract duration complies with the Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz (WissZeitVG).

Applicant personal data will be handled according to European and German legal standards. The application deadline is August 14, 2026.