Job Offer from May 23, 2024
The Bioprocess Engineering Group at the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems (Magdeburg) offers a postdoc position in the Molecular Biology team with the following topic: “Genetic engineering of virus-cell propagation systems for cell culture - based viral vector production”.
One of the major aims of the Bioprocess Engineering group is the optimization of cell culture-based production processes for viral vectors in bioreactors. Viral vectors offer several options for genetic modifications which results in a large versatility with respect to medical treatment opportunities in animals and humans. For instance, propagation-incompetent viral vectors are being used for vaccination approaches. In addition, transgenic viruses that are able to transfer a gene to individuals can be used to ameliorate or cure diseases. Some of these viral vectors applicable for gene therapy are already approved for use in humans. With respect to cancer therapy, viruses can be modified such that they are able to specifically target and destroy cancer cells, and/or to strengthen innate and adaptive immune responses against the tumor. Finally, specific viral vectors can target virus replication itself by interfering with and suppressing of particular parts of the viral replication cycle (antiviral agent).
In this Postdoc project, we are planning to enlarge our expertise in the field of genetic engineering of viral vectors. For this, cell lines for virus production may also need to be modified to propagate the viral construct. For the reconstitution of the viral vectors, we employ reverse genetics. Viruses will be devised and genetically modified (to suit a particular application) based on literature research/educated guess. The applicant will focus on applied research in the field of good health and well-being.
Qualification profile
- Above-average Master's and PhD degree in biochemistry, molecular biotechnology, biosystems engineering, molecular bioengineering or similar
- Profound knowledge in molecular biology, virology, and immunology
- Methods (optional): animal cell culture, real-time RT-qPCR, classical cloning, transfection and transduction, reverse genetics for reconstitution of viruses, retroviral transduction or CRISPR/Cas9
- High motivation, a self-initiative, autonomous and conscientious working style, teamwork skills
We offer
- a position in an interdisciplinary and intercultural research group
- extensive training
- direct and competent supervision
- state-of-the-art instrumentation and laboratory equipment
The salary is based on the collective agreement of the public service (TVÖD, EG13, 100%).
Start of the project
As soon as possible
Duration
two years
Your application
Please submit your application documents including a CV, reference letters, and transcript of records (high school, Bachelor and Master degree, PhD degree) only by email to:
Dr.-Ing. Sascha Y. Kupke
kupke@mpi-magdeburg.mpg.de
What you should be aware of
The Max Planck Society is actively committed to equal opportunities, gender equality, and diversity. What counts for us are your qualifications, your professional strengths, and your personal attitude. We, therefore, welcome all applications regardless of gender, cultural or social background, disability, religion, age, lifestyle, ideology or sexual identity. Increasing the proportion of women in areas where women are underrepresented is a primary goal of the Max Planck Society. We are therefore particularly interested in applications from qualified women and expressly encourage them to apply. The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Severely disabled persons and persons of equal status will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified. Applications from severely disabled people are therefore expressly encouraged.
Please note the information regarding the storage of personal data: data protection for applicants