PhD Student – Pediatric Cancer Research (Neuroblastoma, Molecular & Cell Biology) St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI) in Austria

Kickstart your research career at St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), one of Europe's leading institutions in pediatric oncology, located in Vienna, Austria. This PhD position in the Sabine Taschner-Mandl Group offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge science investigating the mechanisms of cancer initiation and progression in children, with a focus on neuroblastoma and its (epi)genetic determinants.

As a PhD student, you will join a collaborative and interdisciplinary team dedicated to advancing our understanding of childhood cancer. The group works in an open, supportive environment where expertise, curiosity, and teamwork thrive. You will be involved in planning experiments, data acquisition, and integrating new scientific approaches into your research. The project emphasizes ambitious research in close collaboration with both experimental and clinical researchers, aiming to generate insights that support the development of improved therapeutic strategies for pediatric cancer.

Your responsibilities include monitoring scientific literature, contributing creative and critical thinking, writing papers, presenting at conferences, applying for fellowships, and participating in grant applications. The institute offers strong support for personal and professional development, regular networking events with fellow PhD students, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field, with a background in cancer biology. Practical experience with molecular and cell biology techniques, iPSC cultures, differentiation protocols, and familiarity with epigenetics and single-cell technologies are advantageous. Excellent English communication skills are required; German is not necessary. Candidates should be highly motivated, curious, and committed to scientific research, with a strong team spirit and a creative, solution-oriented mindset.

The position is fully funded with a PhD salary according to the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), and includes access to infrastructure and professional development opportunities. St. Anna CCRI is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and providing a respectful work environment. Applications should include a CV, cover letter, and contact details of 2-3 references. The application deadline is May 15, 2026, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For more information about the institute, visit https://ccri.at/. To apply, use the online portal: Apply here. For questions, contact Vanessa Kühl at [email protected].