Master Student - Stem cell models of tumor predisposition (f/m/d)

Are you interested in deciphering the developmental origins of childhood cancers? Do you already have experience with stem cells and cell culture and want to put your skills to test in a real research project? Then this position is ideal for you!

The Halbritter Group is recruiting a master student (f/m/d) interested in applying stem cell and organoid models for pediatric cancer research. Join our multi-disciplinary team and use patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to tackle some of the unresolved mysteries at the interface of cancer, developmental, and genome biology.

Our team aims to understand the earliest cellular and molecular changes that occur in childhood cancers. By achieving a mechanistic understanding of the underlying biology, we hope to inspire new diagnostics and treatments. Our work ranges from the analysis of tumor specimens (https://doi.org/10.1158/2159-8290.CD-19-0138), through in vitro modelling of tumorigenesis (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-47945-7), to the development and evaluation of bioinformatics methods (https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.03.28.534443). Your contribution to our team’s efforts will be primarily on the experimental side, but you may participate in the generation and interpretation of genomics data.

Your responsibilities

• Stem cell culture and organoid differentiation: You will expand and characterize multiple patient-derived (iPSC) lines. You will then learn and apply protocols for organoid differentiation using these cell lines.
• Experimental design and scientific method: You will read the literature, take a deep dive into the relevant biology, and then design experiments using our disease models to reveal molecular changes in cells during early tumorigenesis.
• Molecular and imaging analysis: To collect data and characterize differentiation products, you will apply molecular biology (e.g., qPCR) and imaging techniques (e.g., confocal microscopy).
• Record keeping and dissemination: You will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data in a structured and accurate manner. You will present your findings at lab meetings, institutional seminars, and scientific conferences.
• Teamwork: You will work in a highly collaborative team of computational and experimental biologists.

Your profile

What you bring for this position

• Enrolled in a Master's degree in a relevant subject (e.g. molecular or stem cell biology)
• Excellent technical skills (e.g. qPCR, cell culture, sterile working; experience with pluripotent stem cells is highly desirable)
• Experience (e.g. internships) in a relevant area is a plus
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English (German not required)
• Self-motivated, enthusiastic and eager to learn, good team player, exceptional commitment, and creativity
• Scientific mindset and problem-solving attitude

Our offer

Does this sound interesting? This offer is for you

• A master thesis position for 12 months
• An exciting project in a meaningful, inspiring, and international setting
• An outstanding working atmosphere in a strong team with excellent opportunities
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure
• Flexible working hours, excellent public transport connections and other great benefits
• Great location in the center of Vienna, a capital of biomedical research in Europe with excellent quality of life
• A monthly allowance of € 551,10

Who we are

The St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (St. Anna CCRI), located in the center of Vienna, one of the most livable cities in the world and one of the most important sites for biomedical research in Europe. St. Anna CCRI is a multidisciplinary and internationally networked center of excellence whose goal is to contribute to a sustainable improvement in the cure rates of childhood and adolescent cancers through innovative research and development. Due to the close cooperation between clinic and research, St. Anna CCRI offers the ideal environment for cutting-edge research at a high international level and its implementation in clinical practice. and its translation into clinical practice.

St. Anna CCRI is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to providing a work environment of mutual respect to everyone without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.

Find more information here: https://ccri.at/

Your application

We are looking forward to your application!

Please include the following documents:

• Personal cover letter (detailing your motivation to apply and your future career aspirations)
• Curriculum Vitae (highlighting relevant previous experience)
• Contact details of 2 references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.