The Kalinichenko Lab at the Institute of Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Austria, is seeking a highly motivated Master’s student for a thesis project focused on innovative immune-oncology strategies. The research centers on metabolite-reactive T cells, unconventional T cells, and translational cancer immunology. The lab specializes in non-peptide antigen presentation and is developing new approaches to target pediatric tumors using T cells that recognize metabolite antigens. This project offers strong hands-on training in molecular cloning, flow cytometry, and the culture of primary immune cells and tumor cell lines. Students will work on cloning and expression of candidate antigen-presenting molecules, identification and sorting of antigen-specific unconventional T cells from human blood, and functional testing of T-cell clones against pediatric tumor models. The supportive international team provides close supervision, access to cutting-edge technologies, and opportunities to contribute to translational cancer immunology research.

Applicants should be master’s students in molecular biology, biomedicine, biotechnology, or related fields, with a strong interest in immunology and cellular biology. Previous lab experience in cell culture, cloning, or flow cytometry is an advantage. The ideal candidate is committed, diligent, reliable, enthusiastic for experimental research, and ready to engage actively in hands-on experimental work. Good proficiency in English is required. Applications should include a motivational letter and CV, sent by email to [email protected].

No explicit funding details are provided. The position is based at the Medical University of Graz, Austria, within the Division of Immunology, Otto Loewi Research Center. The lab’s research is at the forefront of immune-oncology, focusing on the biology and therapeutic potential of metabolite-specific T cells in cancer. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in immunology, cancer research, molecular and cellular biology, and translational medicine.