PhD in Artificial Tumor Immune Microenvironments for Immunotherapy Screening in Breast Cancer INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials in Germany

The INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials in Saarbrücken, Germany, is offering a fully funded PhD student position in the field of artificial tumor immune microenvironments for immunotherapy screening in breast cancer. This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a strong background in cell biology, biomaterials, immunology, cancer biology, or biophysics who are interested in cancer immunology and translational science.

The research will be conducted within the Immuno-Materials group, which integrates synthetic biology, biomaterials, and immunology to develop innovative approaches for studying and improving immune therapies. The project focuses on developing and applying synthetic tumor immune microenvironments using artificial cells to mimic immune functions within tumors. This platform enables systematic investigation of therapy resistance mechanisms, particularly in solid tumors such as breast cancer.

Key research activities include developing cancer spheroid and organoid cultures, engineering synthetic cells with immunological properties, performing in vitro assays for immunotherapeutic modalities (including bispecific T cell engagers and antibody-drug conjugates), isolating and culturing primary human T cells to create CAR T cells, and analyzing RNA sequencing-based transcriptomic datasets. Advanced microscopy techniques and biochemical assays will be used to assess cancer phenotypes and immune interactions.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field and ideally possess experience in 3D cell culturing, fluorescence microscopy, and RNA sequencing analysis. The position requires excellent communication skills in English, a self-driven and hands-on approach, and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary, international team.

The INM offers a supportive and professional environment, flexible working hours, mobile working options, and strong support for training and career development. The position is funded as an EG 13 TV-L contract for three years. The institute is committed to diversity, equal opportunity, and work-life balance, and encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities.

Applications should include a CV, Master’s certificate or transcripts, and a motivation letter, submitted as a single PDF file via the INM online application system by March 8th, 2026. For further information, contact Dr. Oskar Staufer at [email protected].