„Research for a life without cancer“ is our mission at the German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts - whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.
The research group “Lipid Pathobiochemistry“, headed by PD Dr. Roger Sandhoff, is seeking for the next possible date a
Postdoc in the field of Sphingolipid Biology and Disease
Reference number: 2025-0012
The research group “Lipid Pathobiochemistry“ investigates the endogenous and pathological functions of sphingolipids. Sphingolipids are a complex class of membrane lipids, but contain also some important extra and intracellular signaling molecules. The cell-specific sphingolipid patterns found depend on cell differentiation, cell activation, but also cell transformation, e.g. to cancer cells. The ganglioside GD2, a glycosphingolipid, for example is expressed quite selectively on various tumor cells and is prominent in neuroblastoma. Sphingolipids in turn modulate cellular processes like proliferation, type of differentiation or activation, and can also influence the potential of tumor cells to metastasize. We investigate their functions with the help of genetically engineered in vitro and in vivo models with functional assays. To determine the specific composition of sphingolipids in our model systems, we have developed chromatographic and mass spectrometric-based methods in our lab.
Our research group is embedded into the department “Tumor Metabolism and Microenvironment” headed by Prof. Dr. Almut Schulze. Progress report seminars and Journal Club are held together. The department is part of the research topic “Cell and Tumor Biology” with common scientific retreats and access to the highly sophisticated scientific infrastructure of the German Cancer Research Center.
Investigation of the impact pathologically disturbed sphingolipid metabolism on viability and function of cancer cells and normal cells in vitro and in vivo
Characterization of pathological sphingolipid derivatives
Preparation of scientific presentations and publications
Preparation of grant applications
PhD in biochemistry, biology, chemistry or related disciplines
Proficiency in genetic engineering and biochemical methods, assay development, and cell culture as well as mass spectrometric analytics are desired
Good knowledge of biochemistry
FELASA certificate is of advantage
Excellent command of written and oral English with proof of proficiency (not required for applicants from EU and North America)
Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments
30 days of vacation per year
Flexible working hours
Possibility of part-time work
Family-friendly working environment
Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
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