Summary
The Department of Biomedicine (DBM) at the University of Basel and the University Hospitals Basel is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Blood Cancer Biology and Immunotherapy group. Funded by an ERC Starting Grant (Project LIFE), this position focuses on investigating how cellular metabolism shapes leukemia persistence, immune evasion, and anti-leukemia immunity.
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (100%) |
| Research Area | Leukemia Immunology, Metabolism, and Tumor Biology |
| Location | Basel, Switzerland |
| Duration | 1 year (with possibility of extension and long-term perspective) |
| Start Date | February 1, 2027, or upon agreement |
Job Description
The successful candidate will lead an interdisciplinary project at the interface of leukemia biology, tumor immunology, and cellular metabolism. The project investigates how specific metabolic programs enable leukemia cells to adapt to therapeutic pressure and alter immune recognition. Key responsibilities include:
- Designing, performing, and interpreting mechanistic experiments, including in vivo animal studies.
- Establishing and adapting experimental approaches such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, functional genomics, and spectral flow cytometry.
- Analyzing and presenting scientific data at international meetings.
- Mentoring PhD and MSc students.
- Contributing to manuscripts and grant applications.
- Collaborating with local and international research partners in hematology and oncology.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must possess a strong intellectual curiosity and a commitment to mechanistic cancer research. Requirements include:
- A PhD or equivalent degree in cancer biology, immunology, molecular biology, hematology, or a related discipline.
- Substantial hands-on experience with in vivo mouse tumor models, ideally in hematological cancers.
- Extensive experience with spectral flow cytometry and molecular biology techniques.
- A strong experimental track record, including at least one high-quality first-author publication.
- Excellent communication skills in English.
- Experience in CRISPR screening, metabolism, or histology is considered an advantage.
Research Environment
The Apostolova Lab provides a highly interactive environment spanning genomics, metabolism, and translational medicine. Researchers have access to state-of-the-art infrastructure for single-cell and spatial technologies, mass spectrometry-based metabolomics, and computational biology.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the University of Basel online portal. The application must include:
- A comprehensive CV including a publication list.
- A copy of your most important original publication.
- A brief statement outlining previous research, scientific interests, and motivation for joining the group.
- Contact details for two to three professional references.
Last Date for Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early application is encouraged.
Apply Link: Official Application Portal
