Research Assistant (Postdoc)

The position is offered until 31. May 2028 (subject to the position becoming available), to work on the project “Dissecting the adipocyte secretome and its immunomodulatory role on natural killer cells”, funded by the Deutsche Krebshilfe (DKH) Stiftung. The starting date is 01.01.2027. The position is fulltime with salary and benefits commensurate with a public service position in the state Hesse, Germany (TV-H E 13, 100 %). We expect experienced and highly motivated scientists to apply, aiming to contribute to the development of a novel and challenging project. We also expect these researchers to be integrated at the activities of the Institute for Tumor Immunology, including dissemination of the results in Progress Reports and Seminars among others.

Tasks:

• Participation in the DKH-funded project to explore the adipocyte-derived secretome and its effect on natural killer (NK) cells
• Scientific research and development of in vitro models studying adipocyte-NK cell crosstalk (e.g., co-culture systems, 3D models), processing of human primary samples (e.g., adipocyte and NK isolation), NK-licensing experiments and extracellular vesicles (EV) isolation
• Execution of cellular and molecular biology routine techniques including cell culture, RNA and protein sample preparation, RT-qPCR, immunoblotting, immunohisto- and immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry (FACS) and microscopy
• Bioinformatic analysis of high-throughput data (e.g., transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics)
• Communication and dissemination of the results, including preparation of reports and manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication in high-ranked international journals
• Co-supervision of technical assistants and students involved in the project 

The position will be filled by a temporary contract that is limited to the period which is necessary to gain further scientific expertise (such as the preparation for a subsequent qualification period). Within the entrusted tasks the opportunity for independent scientific work to obtain further personal qualification is given. The limitation of the contract complies to Section 2(1) of the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG).

Profile:

• MSc-degree or equivalent, and a completed or well-advanced doctoral degree in a Biomedical subject, along with a very good accomplishment
• Scientific background in the following research areas is an advantage: adipose tissue biology, immunology, cancer metabolism, proteomics
• Hands-on experience in in vitro and/or in vivo models of inflammatory diseases (e.g., obesity, cancer), and handling and preparation of patient-derived (primary) material
• Well-established hands-on experience in flow-cytometry analysis of immune cells is a must. Expertise in three or more additional routine techniques to be developed as part of the tasks of the position are expected. Expertise in EV-related research will be considered an advantage.
• Excellent writing skills and familiarity with peer-reviewing process are expected
• Publication record in internationally renowned and peer-reviewed journals will be positively considered
• Expertise in the use of common programming languages (Python, R scripts…) for bioinformatic analyses of high-throughput data (e.g., transcriptomics or proteomics), is an advantage
• Experience in supervising students and collaboration in joint cooperations are also an advantage

We offer:

• Interdisciplinary, multicultural and dynamically evolving research environment at the Faculty of Medicine, including the EV-iTEC Core Facility, Young Faculty Network and the GRK 2573
• Outstanding opportunities for developing your research profile, including mentoring and guidance for your academic career development (e.g., training and teaching opportunities)
• A certified family-friendly employer, Landesticket (ticket for free use of public transport in the state Hesse, Germany) and flexibility for the organization of your work-time

We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. As a certified family-friendly university, we support our employees in balancing family and career. A reduction of working time is possible. Applicants with a disability as discribed in the Social Security Code (Section 2(2) and (3) of Book IX of the Social Security Code (SGB IX)) will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. Application and interview costs can not be refunded.

Please apply by 13. September 2026 using the application-button below.

Endor a copy of your CV (English) including the complete list of publications and at least one reference person, and a motivation letter (in English) explaining how your profile adapts for participating in this project (preferably in one PDF file).