Founded in 1607, Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU) is a research university rich in tradition. Inspired by curiosity about the unknown, we enable around 28,000 students and 5,700 employees to advance science for society. Join us in breaking new ground and writing success stories – your own and those of our university.

Support us as of now in part-time (65 %) as a

PhD student (m/f/d) / Research Associate (m/f/d) – Role of SOCS1 Mutations in B Cell Lymphomas

The position is part of the externally funded project „The Role of SOCS1 Mutations in the Pathogenesis of Hodgkin Lymphomas and Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphomas” and is to be filled on a fixed-term basis in accordance with § 2 WissZeitVG and § 72 HessHG with the opportunity for own academic qualification at the Professorship for Cytology with focal point of lymphoproliferative Diseases, Department of Pathology at the Faculty of Medicine. The salary is in accordance with the collective labour agreement of the State of Hessen (E 13 TV-H).

As long as the maximum permissible duration of a fixed-term contract is not exceeded, you will be employed for a period of 3 years.

Project background

While cancer genome sequencing studies have mapped the mutational landscape of many B-cell lymphomas, it remains a challenge to identify and understand the functional oncogenic events that drive the genesis and survival of these malignant neoplasms. However, recent biotechnological advances are enabling functional genomics experiments on a scale that can match the pace of genome sequencing. Numerous findings from these studies form the basis for translational approaches in modern oncology for the development of new therapies and prognostic biomarkers.

SOCS1 is mutated in germinal center B cell derived lymphomas with significant differences in prevalence and mutation pattern between diverse lymphoma subgroups. A recent study demonstrated that SOCS1 inactivation in cultured germinal center B cells causes immortalization of these cells. We aim to perform a comprehensive investigation on the role of SOCS1 mutations in the pathogenesis of B Cell Lymphomas.

Your tasks at a glance

  • Explore the molecular phenotype of primary cultured human GC B cells induced by SOCS1 inactivation
  • Characterize the functional significance of various SOCS1 mutations
  • Investigate signaling pathways that act synergistically to SOCS1 mutations

The provision of academic services (including the processing of a research project financed by third party funds on a temporary basis) also serves the purpose of academic qualification.

Your qualifications and competences

  • University degree (MSc.) in a relevant subject (biology, life sciences, molecular medicine, etc.)
  • Strong background in tissue culture and molecular biology techniques such as cloning, PCR, etc.
  • Strong motivation, scientific curiosity and commitment to scientific excellence
  • Very good verbal and written English communication skills are expected

Our offer to you

  • A scientific project in the field of translational cancer research
  • Opportunity to learn and apply a wide array of state-of-the-art functional methods such as CRISPR/Cas9 screenings, high throughput sequencing techniques (RNAseq, ChIPseq, ATACseq), competitive gain-of-function ORF screens, etc.
  • Excellent mentoring by PI and PostDocs and support in the development of your scientific profile
  • Active participation in the International Giessen Graduate Centre for the Life Sciences providing seminars, practical courses, research retreats and essential skills for academic and business careers in life sciences (https://www.uni-giessen.de/fbz/zentren/ggl)
  • Free use of local public transport (LandesTicket Hessen)
  • More than 100 training seminars, workshops and e-learning opportunities per year for personal development, as well as a wide range of health and sports activities
  • Remuneration according to TV-H, company pension scheme, child allowance and special payments
  • Good compatibility of family and career (certificate “audit familiengerechte hochschule”)

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Roland Schmitz by e-mail (roland.schmitz@patho.med.uni-giessen.de).

The JLU aims to employ more woman in academic research. We therefore particularly encourage female candidates to apply. The JLU is regarded as a family-friendly university. Applicants with children are very welcome. Applications from disabled people of equal aptitude will be given preference.

You want to break new ground with us?

Apply via our online formby September 13th, 2022, indicating reference number 520/11. Applications should include a one page cover letter describing your research goals, interest, and motivation together with a recent curriculum vitae (CV) including publications. We look forward to receiving your application.

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