"Knowledge becomes health" - we are filling this motto with life every day, developing new ideas and improv-ing old-established knowledge. The University Hospital Frankfurt has existed since 1914. Our around 8,500 employees contribute with their skills and knowledge to the 33 specialist clinics, theoretical clinical institutes, and administrative departments. The close connection of health care with research and teaching, as well as a climate of collegiality, internationality, and cross-professional cooperation characterize the university hospital.

PostDoc in Molecular and Oncological Gynecology – Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe

(We are targeting applicants of all genders)
Full time | limited to 3 years | Announcement number: 284-2025

The Department of Molecular and Oncological Gynecology at the University hospital Frankfurt invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position at earliest possible time to join an exciting project aimed at investigating the role of PLK1/PLK3 inhibition in overcoming drug resistance in ovarian cancer.

The position is located in an innovative, dynamic, and collaborative research environment, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of ovarian cancer, particularly drug resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy. The project involves assessing the therapeutic potential of dual PLK1/PLK3 inhibition in ovarian cancer cell lines and patient-derived organoid models, as well as exploring potential combination therapies to overcome resistance to cisplatin. This includes the use of mouse models for investigating therapeutic efficacy in vivo.

For an insight into the University Hospital Frankfurt, click here.

Your role

  • Conduct in-depth research into the role of PLK1/PLK3 in ovarian cancer, including the development of PLK3 knockout cell lines and organoid models.
  • Perform functional assays to assess cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and drug sensitivity in cancer models.
  • Investigate molecular pathways related to drug resistance through RNA sequencing, qRT-PCR, and proteomics.
  • Develop and implement innovative therapeutic strategies, including combination treatments with PLK1/PLK3 inhibitors and cisplatin.
  • Perform mouse model experiments, including tumor induction, in vivo drug treatment, and assessment of tumor response using bioluminescence imaging.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and clinicians to interpret experimental results and drive the research forward.

Who you are

  • Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Oncology, or a related field.
  • In-depth experience in cancer cell biology, mechanisms of drug resistance, and molecular biology techniques (e.g., CRISPR, RNA-seq, Western Blotting).
  • Willingness to work with mouse models, including tumor injection and in vivo treatments.
  • Expertise in functional assays such as cell viability assays, apoptosis assays, and migration/invasion assays.
  • Knowledge of oncological therapeutic approaches, including combination therapies and targeted inhibition.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
  • Due to legal regulations, valid proof of measles immunity / measles vaccination is required.

What we offer

  • A stimulating and supportive research environment at the forefront of cancer research.
  • The opportunity to contribute to high-impact projects with clinical relevance.
  • A dynamic, international team of experts in molecular oncology and gynecology.
  • Collective agreement: In addition to an attractive salary based on a collective agreement with an annual special payment, you benefit from long-term security through company pension schemes.
  • Mobility: Free public transport in all Hessen (Free State Ticket Hessen).
  • Campus: Our attractive university hospital campus offers a modern cafeteria, various cafes, and opportunities to rest in numerous green spaces. A walk on the riverside of the Main offers relaxation during breaks.
  • Work-Life-Balance: Part-time employment is possible, we offer childcare in our daycare center (if you have any questions, please contact UKF-Familienservice), child care during holidays.
  • Health Promotion: Benefit from our attractive health offers. We offer regular online and face-to-face courses on nutrition, relaxation, sports and exercise.
  • Any questions? Many answers can be found in our FAQs for new employees. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Women are underrepresented in these positions at the University Hospital Frankfurt. Applications from women are therefore particularly welcome. Disabled applicants are preferred if they have the same personal and professional qualifications.

Join our team

Use the time until April 7, 2025 to apply. Please submit your online application including a possible starting. For further information regarding the position and project, please contact Dr. Mourad Sanhaji (Tel: 49 69 6301 6894 or E-Mail: sanhaji@med.uni-frankfurt.de).

Apply now

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