Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in (Research Associate/Lab Manager) (m/f/d)
- Stem cell culture and 3D embryonic models (Gastruloids)
Our Research Focus:
During early embryonic development, suboptimal cells need to be detected and eliminated to ensure that only the fittest cells form the body. To achieve this, cells undergo a process called Cell Competition, in which neighboring cells compare their relative fitness to each other, after which lesser fit cells undergo cellular suicide by apoptosis. We recently characterized this process in detail using gastruloids, a 3D embryonic stem cell-based in vitro system that recapitulates the core machineries of embryonic development from the blastocyst up to somitogenesis stage (Frenster et al., Nature Cell Biology 2026). The open questions in the field are now: 1) how do the cells communicate with each other in this process? 2) Are the mechanisms we found in mouse developmental systems also is true in human development? 3) And lastly, do species with altered quality control mechanisms and cancer resistance differ in their cell competition behavior?
To answer these questions, we perform high-throughput genetic and pharmacological screens in 3D mouse gastruloids and combine the results with time-resolved transcriptomics to find the communication mechanisms between competing cells. Further, we develop a new model of naïve human 3D gastruloids to finally bring the cell competition field into human development, and lastly, we are using iPSCs of cancer resistant species (naked mole rat iPSCs; elephant iPSCs) to generate their first in vitro 3D developmental models and study the interplay between cancer resistance pathways and developmental fidelity.
Candidates must have:
Completed vocational training as “Medizinisch-Technische*r Assistent*in” (MTA/MTLA), “Biologisch-Technische*r Assistent*in” (BTA) or equivalent qualification
In absence of above-mentioned vocation trainings, candidates must have at least a BSc in biology, with significant practical experience and previous administrative responsibilities
Experience in cell culture
High rigor, independence, and collaborative mindset
Be comfortable speaking about lab issues in English language
Experience nice to have but not required:
3D cell culture systems (gastruloids, organoids)
2D Stem cell culture (mouse or human)
Flow cytometry
Microscopy and simple image analysis
Molecular cloning, CRISPR KO generation
What we offer:
As a founding member of this new Emmy Noether group, the Research Technician will be able to influence and shape the infrastructure and lab organization in close collaboration with the group leader. While this position also encompasses administrative roles like ordering reagents and organizing the tangible lab, the candidate is primarily hired as a researcher with an active role in experimentation. Together with the group leader and other lab members, the candidate will participate in ambitious and high-impact projects, while expanding their own experimental skills and “toolbox”.
Our group is embedded in the excellent infrastructure of the University of Freiburg and located in the Signalhaus within the CIBSS Cluster of Excellence. The position is fully funded following DFG guidelines. Following an initial probation time of 6 months, the position is set for up to 6 years with the possibility of renewal.
Apply:
Open call until position is filled. Please submit as one PDF file: a short cover letter describing your background and interest in our group, a CV including your training and practical experience, and contact details of 2 references. Send this PDF with the subject line “Application RA Cell Competition” to
