New Strategies for Targeting of Solid Tumors with Multi-Specific Biologics

What we are looking for

The BioMed X Institute in Heidelberg is establishing a new, fully funded research group in the following field:

New Strategies for Targeting of Solid Tumors with Multi-Specific Biologics

If you hold a PhD or master’s degree with an outstanding track record or strong interest in the fields of oncology and targeted tumor therapies, we invite you to apply with a project proposal for a position in our new research group (1 group leader, 2 postdoctoral researchers, 2 research assistants).

Each BioMed X project team is sponsored by an industry partner. The sponsor of this call for application is Daiichi Sankyo.

Advancing the treatment of solid tumors requires innovative therapeutic strategies that go beyond traditional approaches. In recent years, multi-functional biologics, such as bi- and tri-specific antibodies, have opened new avenues for cancer treatment. These multi-specific modalities demonstrated substantial success in both preclinical and clinical settings. Prominent examples include immune cell engagers which target T cells or NK cells towards the tumor microenvironment, and dual signal modulators targeting tumor cells.

We are seeking innovative research proposals for the development and validation of new concepts and platforms for bi- or multi-specific biologics (peptides or proteins including antibodies) which engage novel target combinations within the microenvironment of solid tumors.

Research proposals should address the following key challenges:

• Development of new therapeutic concepts for bi- or multi-specific biologics for new extracellular or intracellular target combinations which could be exploited for the treatment of solid tumors.
• Exploration, identification, and functional validation of promising new target combinations in vitro and in vivo.
• Development of an elegant in vitro assay system for functional assessment of novel target combinations.

Proposals showcasing originality, particularly those grounded in preliminary experimental evidence or using state-of-the-art machine learning tools, are highly encouraged. Applicants are free to choose any solid tumor indication for their proof-of-concept experiments. It is important to note that classical immune cell engagers, combination therapies, as well as therapeutic modalities other than peptides or proteins (e.g., small chemical molecules, nucleic acids, gene or cell therapy approaches) are out of scope.

Group leader positions are intended to suit candidates with a PhD (or equivalent) in oncology, immuno-oncology or in a related area who would like to develop themselves towards a leadership career path either in academia or industry and have typically between four and eight years of relevant postdoctoral research experience.

Candidates for postdoctoral positions are expected to have completed a PhD or equivalent within the last four years and a certain degree of specialization in one or more relevant cutting-edge technologies.

What we offer

• A position in a fully funded research group with an annual budget of 1.1 million EUR. The funding package covers salaries, consumables, services, travel costs, overhead, as well as access to the core facilities on the campus of the University of Heidelberg.
• A research term of 3-5 years.
• An exciting research opportunity in a multidisciplinary and international research institution with a collegial and flexible working environment.
• Participation in the BioMed X Boot Camp: learn how to build a compelling pitch presentation in only 5 days. There is flexibility over starting dates, but successful applicants are welcome to take up post starting August 1, 2025.

Application & Selection Process

• Please apply online at https://career.bio.mx/registration/2025-BMX-C01
• As part of the online application process, you will be asked to submit: (i) A competitive project proposal that gives us an idea of your scientific expertise and creative potential (3-5 pages describing your unique experimental approach); (ii) Your curriculum vitae including your publication record.
• Deadline for applications: March 9, 2025
• After a first selection round, candidates will be invited to a five-day innovation boot camp in Heidelberg from May 12 to 16, 2025. With guidance of experienced mentors, candidates will jointly work on their project proposals and present them in front of a jury on the final day. Successful candidates will be offered a position at the BioMed X Institute in Heidelberg.

Want to learn more?

Join our Info Session on February 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM CET, and get all your questions answered! Register now to secure your spot: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_mE2ZM1-JTtSnd10PHRcK4Q#/registration

About BioMed X

BioMed X is an independent research institute with sites in Heidelberg, Germany, New Haven, Connecticut, XSeed Labs in Ridgefield, Connecticut, and a worldwide network of partner locations. We operate at the interface between academia and industry, performing biomedical research and drug discovery & development in the fields of oncology, immunology, neuroscience, platform technologies, and artificial intelligence. All our research projects are supported by leading pharmaceutical companies and conducted by early-career scientists recruited from the best schools around the world.

The combination of global crowdsourcing with local incubation of the best research talents and ideas allows us to solve the biggest challenges in biomedical research. We stand for free, creative, and curiosity-driven research combined with a solid validation of results, timelines, and deliverables. We serve a large purpose in advancing translational biomedicine by leveraging synergies and fostering cross-pollination across disciplines.

At BioMed X we embrace diversity as we consider it the source of innovation. We are committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ideology, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, or disability.