Staff Scientist – Zebrafish Xenotransplantation and Patient-Derived Tumor Models

Job offer

The Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and the National Infrastructure for Chemical Biology (CZ-OPENSCREEN) invite applications for a Staff Scientist position focused on zebrafish-based disease modeling in the context of translational cancer research.

Our research integrates developmental biology, in vivo disease modeling, and functional drug testing in zebrafish (Danio rerio), together with patient-derived tumor material. We develop and apply xenotransplantation approaches together with complementary model systems to study tumor behavior, signaling mechanisms, and therapeutic vulnerabilities.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development and application of patient-relevant experimental models in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment that supports basic and translational biomedical research.

Key Responsibilities

Development and application of zebrafish disease and xenotransplantation models
Tumor cell and tissue transplantation into zebrafish embryos and larvae
Implementation of patient-derived xenograft and xenotransplantation approaches
Functional drug response testing using patient-derived material
High-content and confocal imaging and quantitative phenotype analysis
Integration of imaging and sequencing datasets
Participation in collaborative research and supervision of junior researchers

Required Qualifications

PhD in cancer biology, developmental biology, molecular biology, or a related biomedical field
Strong interest in in vivo disease modeling and translational cancer research
Experience with transplantation models, xenografts, or tumor biology is highly desirable
Experience with zebrafish models is an advantage, but a strong motivation to learn is welcome
Experience with patient-derived material or translational research is an advantage
Strong quantitative thinking and data interpretation skills
Ability to work independently while contributing to collaborative team science
Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English

Research Environment

IMG offers a highly collaborative, international research environment with strong connections to European research infrastructures and translational research networks. Researchers have access to state-of-the-art imaging, genomics, and high-throughput screening core facilities.

The position offers strong opportunities for scientific development within interdisciplinary and translational research programs.