Project Leader (T Cell Therapy Development) 100%

The Department of Biomedicine is a joint effort between the University of Basel and the University Hospitals Basel. It unites basic and clinical scientists to advance our understanding of health and disease and to develop pioneering therapies benefiting the lives of patients in areas of unmet need. With more than 70 research groups and 800 employees, the Department of Biomedicine is the largest department at the University. We are located in the heart of Basel at 6 different locations. Be part of our future!

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Project Leader to lead the development and characterization of T cell-based therapies for EBV-associated cancer, with a focus on advancing cutting-edge immunotherapies from conceptualization to early-phase clinical trials. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in immunology, multicolor flow cytometry, immune assays, genome-editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9, library design, and in vivo experimental design and execution. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive research projects, develop robust immune cell characterization strategies, and contribute to the translation of research findings into impactful clinical applications.

Your position

• Design, optimize, and implement strategies for developing T cell-based therapeutic products;
• Lead preclinical studies to evaluate T cell function, persistence, and efficacy;
• Develop and execute multicolor flow cytometry panels to assess immune cell phenotypes and functions;
• Design and perform immune assays, including cytokine profiling, cytotoxicity assays, and proliferation assays;
• Utilize genome-editing tools to engineer transgenic TCR libraries for enhanced therapeutic potential;
• Analyze experimental omics data
• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory documents and grant applications;
• Support technology transfer processes for manufacturing T cell therapy products;
• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including bioinformatics, regulatory, and clinical operations groups;
• Mentor junior scientists and research associates;
• Analyze complex datasets to inform decision-making and improve product development strategies;
• Prepare high-quality scientific presentations, reports, and publications to communicate findings internally and externally.

Your profile

Education:
PhD in Immunology, Cellular Biology, or a related field with postdoctoral experience preferred.

Experience:

• Proven track record in T cell therapy research and development;
• Extensive hands-on experience in immune cell assays and multicolor flow cytometry;
• Proficiency in CRISPR/Cas9 and library design;
• Genomics and/or transcriptomics data analysis;
• Experience with clinical translation of cell-based therapies is highly desirable.

• Strong knowledge of immune cell biology and translational immunology;
• Expertise in assay development and troubleshooting;
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills;
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment;
• Strong publication record in relevant areas of research;
• Familiarity with regulatory guidelines for cellular therapies.

Application / Contact

Please submit your application by email to nina.khanna@ usb.ch and claudia.stuehler@ usb.ch including:

• A CV (with a full list of publications).
• A cover letter detailing your motivation and relevant expertise