Research Associate (Postdoc) Toolbox Biomedicine (m/f/d) - Keyword: 53-2025 Toolbox Biomedicine Postdoc-

The project at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is developing a practical toolbox for personalized medicine in the treatment of cancer and chronic inflammation. At its core is the selection of high-affinity binding partners (antibodies) via phage display, their production, and their controlled, bioorthogonal conjugation with tracers and active ingredients for diagnostics and therapy. This results in defined protein conjugates and, in the future, imaging techniques (e.g., ImmunoPET). Concurrently, cellular assays and flow cytometry are being established for the simultaneous detection of immunotherapeutic target structures (PD-L1/CTLA-4) and for the characterization of anti-inflammatory monocyte phenotypes. The project comprises various subprojects and brings together expertise in biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, and organic chemistry

The position holder (m/f/d) will have the following responsibilities in particular:

• Conducting scientific research in one of the research areas listed below, with the goal of publishing and presenting at relevant conferences and in scientific journals,
• Supporting and supervising M.Sc., B.Sc., and Ph.D. students.

The early-career research group consists of 4 research areas. The applicant's assignment to one of the research areas will be based on their individual suitability and prior scientific experience.

Organic Chemistry: Conjugation of antibodies to specific ligands for the controlled production of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)

Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry: Establishing methods for the selection of specific antibody fragments via phage display and their production in mammalian cells

Microbiology: Construction of expression vectors and strains for the secretory production of peptides, particularly for the incorporation of non-canonical amino acids for further covalent modification with various ligands.

Cell Biology: Investigation of anti-inflammatory signaling pathways in intestinal epithelial cells and development of an assay for the detection of immunomodulatory surface molecules

Only applications from candidates who, within the meaning of the ESF Plus Directive 2021–2027 on universities and research (dated September 1, 2022, SächsABl. p. 1071, last amended by the directive of December 19, 2023 (SächsABl. 2024 p. 5), as contained in the administrative regulation of December 11, 2023 (SächsABl. SDr. p. S 295)). In particular, the degree program or, if applicable, a doctoral degree must not have been completed before May 2019. Periods of maternity leave and parental leave may be taken into account in accordance with the guidelines.

The following knowledge and skills are required

• A completed academic degree in molecular or medical biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, translational medicine, or a closely related field,

• A Ph.D. (Dr. rer. Nat., Dr. rer. Hum., Dr. rer. Med., or equivalent) or an upcoming Ph.D. (verifiable by submission of the dissertation),

• Research experience, demonstrated by publications and/or a relevant doctoral dissertation,

• Good written and spoken English skills.

In addition, the following are desirable:

• knowledge of German or a willingness to learn German.
• For the respective area of work:
  • Organic Chemistry: theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of organic chemistry, practical experience in a synthetic chemistry lab,
  • Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry: experience with the selection of specific antibody fragments,
  • Microbiology: knowledge of expression vectors for the production of secretory peptides,
  • Cell Biology: knowledge of cell and/or molecular biology work as well as prior experience with immunological assays.

We expect you to

• A structured, solution- and service-oriented approach to work, as well as the ability to work independently,
• Willingness to travel for work,
• Willingness and interest in professional and personal development,
• Commitment, reliability, and flexibility,
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

We offer you

• an interesting and challenging field of work,
• flexible and family-friendly work hours in accordance with the applicable employment agreement,
• opportunities for personal and professional development through targeted continuing education and training,
• attractive employee benefits (company pension plan, annual bonus, capital-forming benefits),
• a workplace Health Management program with initiatives to promote employee health, as well as
• the option to use a job ticket.