PhD Student (f/m/d) - Stem Cell & Organoid Research

Location: Vienna
Working Hours: Apprenticeship
Area: Elisabeth Salzer Group

Salary: According to FWF Salary
Contact: [email protected]
Application Deadline: 15.10.2026

Are you passionate about advancing pediatric cancer research? Here is your chance to contribute to science that makes a difference!

The Salzer Group at the St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (St. Anna CCRI) investigates how genetic alterations impact human lymphocyte development. By combining CRISPR-based genome engineering, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and advanced thymus and bone marrow organoid systems, we study both childhood leukemia and inborn errors of immunity in a uniquely human experimental setting.

You will join a highly collaborative, international research environment closely connected to pediatric clinicians and translational researchers, contributing to projects with tangible clinical relevance for children with cancer and immune disorders.

Learn more about the Salzer Group. 

Your responsibilities

• Generate and optimize lymphoid organoid systems derived from iPSCs and primary human CD34+ cells
• Perform CRISPR  screens targeting genes implicated in lymphocyte development 
• Generate and characterize lymphocyte organoid cultures from CRISPR-edited CD34+ stem cells
• Contribute creative and critical thinking to drive project success
• Monitor scientific literature and integrate new approaches into your research
• Contribute to and perform data analysis, manuscript preparation, and presentation of results at lab meetings and conferences

Your profile

What you bring for this position: 

• Master's degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, a related field or MD in human Medicine
• Interest in CRISPR-based genetic screens and gene editing
• Enthusiasm for working with organoid models (or willingness to learn)
• Some lab hands-on experience including molecular cloning CRISPR editing, cell culture, single cell sequencing
• A rigorous, detail-oriented approach to experimental design and data analysis
• Strong motivation to work independently while being part of a collaborative team

Our offer

Learning & Growth: Take advantage of seminars, trainings and language courses to expand your skills

Structured Onboarding: Benefit from a comprehensive orientation and hands-on training to help you settle in smoothly

PhD Community: Connect, exchange and grow through regular events and interdisciplinary networking with fellow PhD students

Collaborative Spirit: Join a young, motivated team that values open exchange, creativity and initiative

Inclusive & Purpose-Driven: Be part of an international workplace with a meaningful mission

Prime Location: Work in the heart of Vienna – a European hub for biomedical research and a city known for its high quality of life

An attractive salary package according to the Austrian Science Fund FWF. 

Who we are

One of Europe's leading institutions in the field of pediatric oncology, St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (St. Anna CCRI) investigates the biological foundations of cancer in children and adolescents. For almost 40 years, our multidisciplinary teams have been committed to developing innovative diagnostic approaches and personalized treatments aimed at further improving young patients’ chances of cure. In close collaboration with both national and international partners we combine scientific excellence with clinical relevance. We stand for responsible research, transparency and sustainable knowledge building. As an employer, we offer a state-of-the-art research environment, opportunities for professional development as well as a workplace culture that embraces diversity and appreciation. Work where it really matters and contribute to science that makes a difference.

St. Anna CCRI is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to providing a work environment of mutual respect to everyone without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.

Find more information here: https://ccri.at/.

Your application

We are looking forward to your application! Applications should at least contain:

- CV
- Cover letter (Why do you want to do a PhD? Why in this field? Why in the Salzer Group?)
- Contact details of one reference
- List of publications if applicable (please explain your top contributions)

The application deadline is the 15.10.2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

Your recruiting process

A clear and appreciative application process is important to us – find out more here about the next steps.

Contact information

Vanessa Kühl
[email protected]
+436645401289