Research Assistant Position (all genders) Synthetic Lethality in DNA Repair (SDR)

About BioMed X

BioMed X is an independent research institute located on the campus of the University of Heidelberg in Germany. Together with our partners, we identify big biomedical research challenges and provide creative solutions by combining global crowdsourcing with local incubation of the world’s brightest early-career research talents. Each of the highly diverse research teams at BioMed X has access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and is continuously guided by experienced mentors from academia and industry. At BioMed X, we combine the best of two worlds - academia and industry - and enable breakthrough innovation by making biomedical research more efficient, more agile, and more fun.

About Team SDR

Due to their roles in response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, targeting DNA repair and DNA replication proteins has become an important tool in the field of oncology. With the goal of personalizing cancer therapy, screens provide valuable targets for initial stages in drug development. Recent advances in the CRISPR/Cas9 technology enabled development of screening strategies. In team SDR, we employ custom designed and genome-wide libraries, pooled and arrayed screens in order to discover mechanisms of DNA Repair, and to find drug targets that may increase the efficiency of clinically used DNA damaging drugs. The objective of the group, headed by Dr. Özdemirhan Serçin is to discover new drug targets in DNA Repair and DNA Replication field. Building on the success of DNA Damage in Cancer (DDC) group here in BioMed X Institute (see publications), SDR focuses on screens in cells deficient in DNA Repair proteins and aims to unravel new Synthetic lethal interactions between DNA Repair genes.

The Position

We are looking for highly enthusiastic researchers to broaden our think-tank with their intellectual power and technical excellence. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor or Masters Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry or in a related field. A background in DNA Repair or DNA Replication fields is preferable but not required.

Required skills

• Cell Culture: culturing, transfection and infection of mammalian cell lines
• Biochemistry wet-lab skills: immunoblotting, PCR, cloning, DNA/RNA Extraction,…
• Experienced to work in interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent communication skills in English

What we offer

The post is offered for a limited term until October 31st, 2023.

• International, diverse, and positive work atmosphere, flexible working environment
• A competitive salary
• Access to training and lecture courses in house as well as in neighboring research insitutions on the Life Science Campus in Heidelberg
• Access to a vast network in science and industry
• Job ticket, sponsored fitness contract, complimentary fresh fruit, soft drinks and chocolate team recognition events, etc.

The position is sponsored by Merck.

Candidates are requested to submit

• 1-page cover letter explaining the reasons of interest to join our team
• Curriculum Vitae outlining scientific interests, research achievements, a record of publications, future personal goals and extra-scientific passions
• 2 reference letters The position is available immediately. Please submit your application to the attention of Dr. Özdemirhan Serçin before April 01st, 2022, via our online career space. Applicants will be interviewed upon incoming documents, hence please get in touch as soon as you decide to apply.