Research Assistant Position (all genders) in Extrachromosomal DNA in Cancer (EDC)

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 EDC

A postdoctoral fellow position is available in our new research group Extrachromosomal DNA in cancer (EDC), headed by Dr. Alexandros Drainas. The objective of the group is to investigate the formation, maintenance and consequences of extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in cancer using cutting edge single cell screening and spatial technologies. ecDNA leads to high amplification of oncogenes or genes involved in drug resistance under selective pressures and has a prominent role in cancer heterogeneity. The overarching goal is to identify druggable targets that reduce ecDNA abundance in cancer – and hence ablating a potent tool of genetic heterogeneity and a powerhorse of drug resistance in cancer.

The Position

We are looking for highly enthusiastic researchers to broaden our think-tank with their intellectual power and technical excellence. The Research Assistant will help and support assays to investigate ecDNA in cancer. Apart from experimental work, the Research Assistant will help with maintaining lab supplies and support with lab organization and ordering. The ideal candidate should have an M.Sc. or related degree and a strong background in cell culture systems and molecular biology techniques.

Required skills

• Hands-on experience in establishing and maintenance of cultured cells (transfection, transduction) and cell-based assays (in vitro or in vivo)
• Hands-on experience in basic molecular and cell biology techniques (DNA/RNA isolation, PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, Immunofluorescence)
• Very good work organization skills
• Experienced to work in interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent communication skills in English

Additional preferred skills

• Hands on experience in CRISPR/Cas9-based systems
• Familiarity with mouse work
• RNAseq, DNAseq, nanopore sequencing
• Multiplex ion beam imaging, CyTOF, single cell methodologies

What we offer

• 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 institutions 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 post is offered for a limited term until July 31st, 2027. 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
• 1 reference

The position is available as of September 1st, 2022. Please submit your application to the attention of Dr. Alexandros Drainas before June 30th, 2022 via our online Career Space.