PhD Position in Immune Escape Mechanisms in Brain Metastases – Systems Immunology, Oncology, and Computational Biology University Medical Center Freiburg in Germany

The University Medical Center Freiburg, Department of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position in the research group of Dr. Florian Ingelfinger at the Centre for Translational Cell Research (ZTZ). The project, part of the CRC1479 OncoEscape framework, focuses on investigating spatio-temporal mechanisms of immune escape in brain metastases using advanced single-cell transcriptomics and computational systems immunology approaches.

This interdisciplinary project aims to identify and characterize tumor–immune interactions within the central nervous system, addressing the clinical challenge of immune suppression and limited therapy response in brain metastases. The research will utilize state-of-the-art spatial and time-resolved single-cell technologies, preclinical mouse models, analysis of primary patient material, ex vivo organoid systems, and computational biology methods. The successful candidate will join a collaborative team with expertise in clinical oncology, systems immunology, and computational biology, and will benefit from strong experimental and clinical research partnerships.

The position offers access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities, high-performance computing infrastructure, and structured mentoring in systems immunology, translational oncology, and computational biology. Participation in the CRC1479 “OncoEscape” Graduate School is included, providing a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment. The initial contract is for 2 years (TV-L 13, 65%) with the possibility of extension, and includes institutional benefits such as a job ticket and support for conference participation and high-impact publications.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Molecular Medicine, Biology, Immunology, Bioinformatics, or a related field, with a strong interest in systems immunology and translational cancer research. Experience in cell biology, molecular biology, and/or immunology is required, ideally including work with mouse models. Additional beneficial qualifications include computational biology skills (Python, R, single-cell data analysis, machine learning), experience with single-cell analysis frameworks (e.g., scanpy, scvi-tools), basic statistics knowledge, and familiarity with Linux-based HPC environments.

To apply, candidates must submit their application online via the Medical Center Freiburg job application portal, including a motivation letter, CV, graduation certificates, relevant academic transcripts, and contact details of at least two referees. For further inquiries, contact Dr. Florian Ingelfinger at [email protected]. Please note that applications should not be sent by email but through the online portal.

Keywords: immune escape, brain metastases, single cell transcriptomics, systems immunology, translational oncology, computational biology, spatial transcriptomics, cancer research.