Masters Thesis: Immunocompetent tumor models with physiological microenvironment (m/w/d)

The NMI is a member of the Innovation Alliance Baden-Württemberg. It is involved in application-oriented research at the interface between the life sciences and material science. An interdisciplinary team of scientists is developing new technologies for companies and public research sponsors in the areas of Pharma and Biotech, Biomedicine and Materials Science, and Material Analysis and Electron Microscopy.

The Tumor Biology Group at the NMI is engaged in translational oncology projects by applying 3D microtumor models derived from primary tumor tissue for preclinical compound testing as well as for research projects focused on immuno-oncology and functional cell biology. In this context, we are working on the further development of this model system with regard to its integration with microfluidic chip systems. 

This position is available to start immediately. 

Subject of this thesis

The parallel testing of compounds and their combinations in patient-derived, ex vivo model systems allows a quantification of the clinical efficiency as well as the testing of toxicities in a clinically relevant time frame. In contrast to conventional static culture systems, microfluidic chip platforms integrate spatial organization and guided, mostly adjustable media perfusion and diffusion.

In this thesis, you will work on establishing patient-derived tumor models and combining them with perfused chip systems for long-term analysis of compound effects and tumor-immune cell interactions.

Requirements

• Relevant studies in cell biology, biochemistry, and/or immunology
• Hands-on working experience from molecular biology, cell biology and/or immunology labs
• Curiosity, high attention to detail, initiative and ability to work in multidsciplinary teams

We Offer

• Highly motivated, competent, multidisciplinary team with scientific and technical employees
• The opportunity to work independently under excellent supervision and to gain practical experimental experience
• Excellent technical equipment for all aspects of assay development
• The thesis must last for a minimum of six months

Your contact person

Frau Katja Rösslein