PhD Position in TCR Discovery and Cellular Immunotherapy
The University of Basel’s Department of Biomedicine is offering a fully funded PhD position in
TCR Discovery and Cellular Immunotherapy
within the Infection Biology laboratory led by
Prof. Nina Khanna Gremmelmaier
.
This project focuses on T-cell immunity in Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-associated cancers and aims to identify novel tumor-reactive T-cell receptors (TCRs) for next-generation adoptive cellular therapies. The work is embedded in a translational research program with close links to clinicians, GMP manufacturing facilities, and clinical trial units, offering a rare opportunity to engage in both basic discovery and clinical implementation.
The successful candidate will work with patient-derived tumor models and advanced experimental platforms, including CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering, immunopeptidomics, single-cell multiomics, and functional immunology. Key responsibilities include establishing EBV-positive tumor models, engineering HLA-defined target cells, isolating and characterizing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, profiling immune cell transcriptomes and TCR repertoires, reconstructing and validating candidate TCRs, and performing multicolor flow cytometry, T-cell expansion, cytokine, proliferation, and cytotoxicity assays.
The position is suited to a highly motivated MSc-level candidate in immunology, molecular biology, cell biology, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline. Strong laboratory experience, analytical thinking, good English, and a willingness to learn new experimental and computational methods are emphasized. Experience in cancer biology, viral or cellular immunology, CRISPR/Cas9 editing, single-cell sequencing, immunopeptidomics, or R/Python-based analysis would be advantageous.
Basel offers an internationally collaborative research environment across the University of Basel and University Hospitals Basel. The role includes training in cutting-edge technologies, close supervision, opportunities for international presentations and high-impact publications, and strong career mentoring.
Applications should include a CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts and degree certificates, and the contact details of two or three referees. The position is available immediately or by agreement, with a preferred start in November 2026, and remains open until filled. Application deadline: 2026-09-03.
