Christian J. Braun

Goethe University Frankfurt is inviting applications for a PhD student position in the Translational Pediatric Oncology Research Group led by Professor Christian J. Braun. The group is based at the Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, and focuses on understanding how dysregulated gene-expression programs drive pediatric cancers. The overarching goal is to identify new therapeutic vulnerabilities and advance precision oncology for children. Research in the group combines CRISPR-based genetic screens, transcriptomic and proteomic profiling, and patient-derived cancer models to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying high-risk pediatric tumors. The successful candidate will design and conduct CRISPR-based genetic perturbation screens, analyze epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic datasets, and validate candidate genes and pathways in cellular models. The role also involves contributing to the development and preclinical evaluation of targeted therapies, collaborating within an interdisciplinary team of clinicians, molecular biologists, and computational scientists, and presenting research findings at group meetings and scientific conferences. The position offers a collaborative and supportive research environment with access to advanced technologies and the opportunity to contribute to impactful research that may directly improve outcomes for children with cancer. Candidates should have a background in Life Sciences, a strong interest in cancer biology and translational research, and ideally experience with molecular biology techniques, CRISPR-based screening, and computational analysis of omics data. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a team are essential. Funding is provided for the PhD studentship, though specific details regarding stipend and tuition coverage are not mentioned. Interested applicants should apply via the university's career portal and prepare a CV and cover letter outlining their relevant experience and motivation for joining the group. For more information, candidates can refer to the provided links or contact the research group directly.