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

The project at the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is developing an application-oriented toolbox for personalized medicine in cancer and chronic inflammation. At its core are the selection of high-affinity binding partners (antibodies) via phage display, their production and controlled, bioorthogonal conjugation with markers and active substances for diagnostics and therapy. This results in defined protein conjugates and perspective imaging procedures (e.g. ImmunoPET). In parallel, cellular assays and flow cytometry will be established for the simultaneous detection of immunotherapeutic target structures (PD-L1/CTLA-4) and for the characterization of anti-inflammatory monocyte phenotypes. The project includes various subprojects and combines expertise from biochemistry, immunology, microbiology and organic chemistry

The position holder (m/f/d) has in particular the following tasks

• scient. Research activities in one of the research areas mentioned below, with the aim of publishing and presenting at relevant conferences and in scientific journals,
• Support and supervision of M.Sc. and B.Sc. and doctoral students.

The junior research group is composed of 4 working areas. The applicant will be assigned to one of the working areas according to his/her personal suitability and previous 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, in particular 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 applicants who are eligible for funding within the meaning of the ESF Plus Directive 2021-2027 Higher Education and Research (dated September 1, 2022, SächsABl. p. 1071, last amended by the directive dated December 19, 2023 (SächsABl. 2024 p. 5), contained in the administrative regulation dated December 11, 2023 (SächsABl. SDr. p. p 295)) can be considered. In particular, the studies or, if applicable, a doctorate 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

• Completed scientific university degree in molecular or medical biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, translational medicine or a closely related field,

• Doctorate (Dr. rer. Nat., Dr. rer. Hum., Dr. rer. Med. or comparable) or forthcoming doctorate (verifiable by submission of doctoral thesis),

• Research experience, proven by publications and/or a relevant doctoral thesis,

• Good written and spoken English.

In addition, the following are desirable

• Knowledge of German or willingness to learn German.
• For the respective field of work:
  • Organic chemistry: theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of organic chemistry, practical experience in a synthesis laboratory,
  • Biochemistry and technical biochemistry: experience with 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 and previous experience with immunological assays.

We expect from you

• A structured, solution- and service-oriented and independent way of working,
• Willingness to undertake business trips,
• Willingness and interest in further professional and personal development,
• Commitment, reliability and flexibility,
• strong communication and teamwork skills.

We offer you

• an interesting and challenging field of activity,
• flexible and family-friendly working hours within the framework of the applicable service agreement,
• personal and professional development opportunities through targeted training and further education,
• attractive social benefits (company pension scheme, annual special payment, capital-forming benefits),
• company health management with offers for workplace health promotion and
• the opportunity to use a job ticket.