The Institute for Experimental Cellular Therapy at University Hospital Essen is offering a fully funded 3-year PhD position in Immunopeptidomics and Leukemia Research, starting April 2026. The project, led by Professor Katharina Fleischhauer and Dr. Pietro Crivello, focuses on understanding how HLA class II (DR/DQ) immunopeptidomes shape T-cell responses and influence leukemia control after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT). This research integrates advanced techniques such as immunopeptidome mapping, T-cell alloreactivity assays, cell culture models, transcriptomics, and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing.

The successful candidate will join a highly interdisciplinary and translational cancer research environment, gaining access to state-of-the-art technologies and benefiting from close mentorship and international collaborations. The position is funded by the Wilhelm Sander Stiftung and provides a stipend for the duration of the program. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Immunology, or related fields, with demonstrated experience in molecular or cellular biology and a strong interest in immunology and hematology. Motivation, independence, and the ability to work in a collaborative, international setting are essential.

Research themes include HLA class II immunopeptidome mapping, T-cell functional assays, cell culture models of alloHCT, and the use of CRISPR/Cas9 for genome editing. The project aims to advance understanding of leukemia recognition and control, contributing to the development of innovative cellular therapies. The application deadline is April 1, 2026. Interested candidates should contact Dr. Pietro Crivello at [email protected] and visit the provided website for further details.