Internship with subsequent Master's thesis on the morphomechanical characterization of human cells

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) currently operates 76 institutes and research units throughout Germany and is a leading applied research organization. Around 32 000 employees work with an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros.

At the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI, we bring together the expertise of our employees to drive medical progress. Our focus is on cell and gene therapy, pharmaceuticals and vaccines, molecular and immune diagnostics, and other innovative topics. We are the professional home for scientists, engineers, laboratory technicians, and administrative staff who work together in the service of health.

Would you like to put your theoretical knowledge into practice and gain exciting insights into interdisciplinary cutting-edge research? Then you’ve come to the right place!

We are currently looking for a Master’s student to join our research group »DNA Nanodevices« at the Leipzig site for an internship with a subsequent Master’s thesis.
The research group works on the design of DNA nanostructures and their functionalization with a wide range of (bio)molecules for later application in diagnostic and immunological contexts. In addition, the team investigates the morphomechanical properties of various cell types.

What you will do

In cognitive and chronic diseases, cellular morphology and mechanical properties can sensitively indicate pathological changes - sometimes even before classical molecular markers become detectable. The goal of your thesis is to analyze cells from human-derived samples morphomechanically, in order to identify potential new diagnostic approaches based on your observations. Your tasks will include:

Cultivating eukaryotic cells and establishing stable cell cultures
Learning and applying modern cytometric techniques such as flow cytometry and real-time deformability cytometry (RTDC) to analyze mechanical cell parameters
Analyzing human samples (serum, whole blood, plasma) from the Leipzig Biobank with a focus on patient-oriented research questions
Planning, performing, and evaluating basic biological and biochemical laboratory techniques

What you bring to the table

A completed Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in the life sciences (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biophysics or a related field), and current enrollment in a Master's program
Practical experience with basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., pipetting, buffer preparation, sterile work); prior experience with cell culture is beneficial but not required.
Basic skills in data analysis and processing using standard software tools
Ideally, good communication skills in both German and English
You enjoy learning new practical techniques, approach unfamiliar topics with curiosity and structure, and quickly gain a deep understanding through analytical thinking.

What you can expect

With our strong links to industry, you benefit from an environment where creative research freedom meets real-world application – with tangible societal impact. You actively contribute to shaping tomorrow’s medicine and gain insights into Europe’s leading organization for applied research.
You will work as part of an international and interdisciplinary team, have access to state-of-the-art technologies for biological and biochemical analyses, and enjoy a high degree of creative freedom.
You will gain valuable hands-on experience and prepare for future roles by learning relevant scientific methods and strengthening your skills in independently planning and conducting experiments.
Throughout your time at Fraunhofer IZI, you will receive technically sound and collaborative supervision at eye level.
With flexible scheduling that fits your studies, we support your self-directed time management.

The duration of the project is flexible and depends on your university’s requirements and your personal schedule. Please note: We cannot offer financial compensation for internships or thesis work. However, you can expect an exciting research topic and intensive scientific supervision.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

Interested? Apply online now via our career portal. We look forward to getting to know you!

Do you have questions about the position or the application process? We’re here for you:

Dr. David Smith
Head of Research Group »DNA Nanostructures«
Email: david.smith@izi.fraunhofer.de

Lea-Sophie Fingerhut
Strategic HR Development & Recruiting
Email: bewerbung@izi.fraunhofer.de
Phone: +49 341/35536-9224

Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI

www.izi.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 80850 Application Deadline:

Job Segment: Biology, Molecular Biology, Medical Lab, Biotech, Cell Biology, Science, Healthcare

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