PhD Student -Targeting epigenetic regulators in leukemia development

(We are targeting applicants of all genders)
Full Time | limited for 3 years with possibility of extension | Announcement number: 163-2025

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the lab of Dr. Hannah Uckelmann in the Pediatrics Department and Mildred Scheel Career Center (MSNZ). The Max-Eder junior research group of Dr. Uckelmann specializes on studying the epigenetic regulation of leukemic self-renewal and targeted epigenetic therapy approaches. We are looking for a candidate specifically interested in understanding the epigenetic mechanisms driving the switch from normal to malignant hematopoiesis using in vitro and in vivo models, applying cutting-edge chromatin technologies and protein biochemistry.

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Project description:

Our lab is interested in understanding the epigenetic mechanisms driving leukemia development and uncovering novel therapeutic targets using in vitro and in vivo models of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This project will focus on the epigenetic complexes that cooperate with the oncogene NPM1c to drive oncogenic gene expression. We have previously shown that NPM1c is highly dependent on the MLL histone methyltransferase complex and based on our studies novel targeted therapy approaches are currently in phase II clinical trials (Uckelmann et al. Science 2020). Our recently published study further shows that NPM1c, which was previously been thought to mainly act in the cytoplasm of cancer cells, is present in the nucleus and recruited to chromatin where it directly regulates oncogenic gene expression (Uckelmann et al. Cancer Discovery 2023). In our future studies we will take a closer look at cooperating partners of NPM1c on chromatin to uncover novel epigenetic mechanisms to uncover specific vulnerabilities of preleukemic and leukemic cells. More information can be found here:

Your role

• Explore epigenetic complexes driving cancer development using in vitro and in vivo leukemia models
• Use CRISPR gene editing to generate new model systems - such as endogenous degrader models and reporter cell lines - to study the molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis
• Apply cutting edge technologies to study epigenetic and transcriptional deregulation in cancer
• Identify potential new drug targets and novel treatment approaches for acute myeloid leukemia
• Develop new ideas to tackle unexplored questions

Who you are

• Master’s degree in life sciences or equivalent
• Passion for discovery of novel therapy approaches and epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation
• Collaborative spirit & good communication skills
• Experience in molecular laboratory techniques (i.e. protein biochemistry, FACS etc.)
• Experience in working with animal models is a plus
• Proficiency in spoken and written English
• Due to legal regulations, valid proof of measles immunity / measles vaccination is required.

What we offer

• Collaboration: Collaboration opportunities with national & internattional world-leading 
• laboratories
• Scientific Environment: Excellent scientific environment & dedicated mentoring, training in novel cutting edge techniqes to study epigenetic mechanisms
• Traininings: Particiapation in traininig and qualification programs of the MSNZ and the Goethe University
• Collective agreement: In addition to an attractive salary based on a collective agreement(65% - E13) with an annual special payment, you benefit from long-term security through company pension schemes
• Mobility: Free public transport in all Hessen (Free State Ticket Hessen)
• Campus: Our attractive university hospital campus offers a modern cafeteria, various cafes, and opportunities to rest in numerous green spaces. A walk on the riverside of the Main offers relaxation during breaks
• Work-Life-Balance: Part-time employment is possible, we offer childcare in our daycare center (if you have any questions, please contact UKF-Familienservice), child care during holidays
• Health Promotion: Benefit from our attractive health offers. We offer regular online and face-to-face courses on nutrition, relaxation, sports and exercise.
• Professional development: Internal and external training for your professional development
• Any questions? Many answers can be found in our FAQs for new employees. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Women are underrepresented in these positions at the University Hospital Frankfurt. Applications from women are therefore particularly welcome. Disabled applicants are preferred if they have the same personal and professional qualifications.

Join our team

Use the time until February 16, 2025 to apply. Please submit your application including your CV, short motivation statement (1 page max.) and a reference letter. For further information regarding the position, please contact Dr. Hannah Uckelmann (E-Mail: uckelmann@med.uni-frankfurt.de).