Master Thesis in Synthetic Immunology, Biomaterials, and Cancer Therapy Resistance

The INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials is offering a Master thesis opportunity in the Immuno-Materials research group led by Oskar Staufer. The project focuses on the development of synthetic lymph nodes to study therapy resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Students will work at the intersection of synthetic immunology, biomaterials, and cancer immunology, applying concepts from molecular systems engineering to build tissues from synthetic cells and polymers. The research aims to mimic the microenvironment of leukemia cells using artificial cells and study the effects of the extracellular matrix and intercellular signaling on therapy resistance. Techniques involved include 3D cancer cell culture, immuno-staining with flow cytometry analysis, advanced microscopy (light-sheet and confocal fluorescence microscopy), biochemical and radiometric assays, cell culturing, lipid membrane engineering, and indentation analysis. The project is suitable for master students with backgrounds in cell biology, biomaterials, biophysics, or related fields. Applicants should be interested in synthetic immunology and material science, and motivated to learn and apply cutting-edge laboratory techniques. The INM promotes diversity, equal opportunity, and a family-friendly work environment, offering flextime and mobile working options. Women and severely disabled applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. The application deadline is December 15th, 2025, and the position is set to start on February 1st, 2026, with flexibility. Application materials (CV, B.Sc. certificate or transcripts, motivation letter) should be submitted as a single PDF file via the institute's online application system. For more information, visit the provided links to the research group and application portal. This opportunity is ideal for students seeking hands-on experience in synthetic biology, cancer research, and biomaterials at a leading German research institute.