The Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI researches and develops special problem solutions at the interface of medicine, biosciences and engineering. One of its main tasks is contract research for biotechnological, pharmaceutical and medical technology companies, clinics, diagnostic laboratories and research institutions.

The Fraunhofer IZI has a branch office at the Fraunhofer Center Erfurt (FZE). There, we are looking for a Master's student to work on a thesis from November 2024. The FZE develops methods for the precision analysis of cells based on principles and techniques from analytical chemistry, biotechnology and biophysics. The Master's thesis is part of a project in which the specific uptake of nanoparticles in human tissue cells is to be investigated. For organ-on-chip applications, complex spheroid and barrier models from different cell types will be established, which will also be tested for nanoparticle invasion. These experiments are preliminary tests for melanoma diagnostics. Your place of work for the project is the Fraunhofer Center in Erfurt (Herman-Hollerith-Straße 3). The duration of the project is flexible and depends on the requirements of your university and your preferred schedule.

What you will do

• You will cultivate eukaryotic cells derived from human tissue under conditions that mimic the tissue microenvironment.
• You apply flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy to detect nanoparticle invasion.
• You will use cell staining to distinguish between different cell types.
• You will establish cultivation systems for organ-on-chip technologies in order to produce complex 3D spheroids and barrier models.

What you bring to the table

• You have successfully completed your Bachelor's degree (B.Sc.) in biosciences (e.g., biochemistry, biology, biotechnology, biophysics) or a related field.
• During your studies, you have already gained practical experience in basic molecular biology techniques (such as pipetting, preparation of buffers, etc.), as well as in microscopy, and have knowledge of data analysis and presentation using common computer programs.
• Knowledge of mammalian cell culture is desirable, but not a prerequisite.
• You are enthusiastic about learning new practical skills, approach unfamiliar topics with curiosity, and quickly and independently delve into them through your analytical approach.
• Ideally, you are a good communicator in both German and English.

What you can expect

• A Master's thesis in a challenging international and interdisciplinary work environment with access to advanced technologies for biological and biochemical analysis, offering you a high degree of creative freedom.
• Valuable preparation for future research or professional positions, where you will learn a variety of relevant scientific techniques and expand your competencies in the independent planning of experimental work.
• Exciting insights into the work and daily life of a research institution.
• Individual support and guidance at eye level throughout the thesis process.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

Interested? Apply online via our career portal now. We look forward to getting to know you!

For specific questions regarding this position, please contact:

Anna Wagner
anna.wagner@izi.fraunhofer.de

Dr. David M Smith
david.smith@izi.fraunhofer.de

Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI

Requisition Number: 76377 Application Deadline: