Recherche

PhD position in pediatric immuno-oncology

The Pediatric Hematology Oncology Laboratory is seeking a full-time PhD Research Fellow for a one-year fixed-term contract, subject to renewal. The starting date is September 1, 2026.

Contexte

The Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) is one of Switzerland’s five university hospitals. Through its close collaboration with the Faculty of Biology and Medicine at the University of Lausanne and EPFL, CHUV plays a leading role in medical care, research, and education.

The Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Laboratory (LHOP) is affiliated with the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Unit (HOP) at the CHUV and is a nationally and internationally recognized competence center for neuroblastoma research. The LHOP provide an excellent scientific environment for high quality research through our integration into the Swiss Cancer Center Lausanne. More information about the laboratory and research environment can be found here: Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Research Laboratory and Leveraging Type 2 Immunity to Boost CAR-T Therapy Against Neuroblastoma - Département femme-mère-enfant - CHUV

Our research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying high-risk neuroblastoma, an aggressive pediatric cancer for which existing treatment options are not sufficiently effective for relapsed or refractory cases, and on developing innovative therapeutic approaches.

In a collaborative project led by Prof. Li Tang (EPFL) and PD Dr Francesco Ceppi (CHUV), in collaboration with Prof. Raffaele Renella (CHUV), we aim to enhance the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapies in neuroblastoma. While CAR-T therapies have shown remarkable success in hematological cancers, their effectiveness in neuroblastoma is limited due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. To overcome this, the project explores a novel strategy integrating type 2 immune functions into CAR-T cells to improve their efficacy and durability against neuroblastoma.

Funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF, BRIDGE Discovery), this interdisciplinary effort brings together multiple groups across EPFL and CHUV, bridging fundamental research and translational applications.

Mission

• Contribute to the development of next-generation CAR-T cells combining type 1 and type 2 immune functions
• Develop and optimize neuroblastoma models, including syngeneic, xenograft, and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models
• Collaborate closely with the postdoctoral researchers in the Tang lab (EPFL) and Ceppi group (CHUV) to test mouse and human CAR-T cells using both in vitro and in vivo assays
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, including the preparation of figures and scientific reports
• Actively participate in the scientific life of the lab and contribute to a collaborative research environment
• Present research findings at lab meetings and national/international scientific conferences.

Profil

• Master's degree in Life Sciences, Medical Biology, or an equivalent qualification
• Strong motivation and interest in pediatric oncology and immuno-oncology
• Hands-on experience in cellular and molecular biology techniques; experience working with mouse models is highly desirable
• Willingness to receive training in ethical animal handling and experimentation (essential)
• Basic knowledge of statistical analysis
• Strong scientific curiosity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills
• High level of rigor, attention to details, and consistency in experimental work
• Proficient written and spoken communication skills in both English and French
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.

Nous offrons

To become an employee of the world-famous University Hospital Center from the Canton of Vaud is an assurance of:

• A highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of immunology, bioengineering, and clinical research
• Close interaction with leading research groups at EPFL and CHUV
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies
• Opportunities for advanced scientific training, transferable skill development, and participation in international conferences
• First-rate social benefits such as a Paternity Leave of 20 days and a Maternity Leave of 4 months (there is also the possibility to obtain a complementary breastfeeding leave of 1 month)
• Regular salary progression adapted to your responsibilities
• A right to at least three days of training per year, by accessing a wide offer of courses not only from the CHUV Training Center but also from external providers
• Possibility to access one of the 500 furnished apartments offered in the surrounding neighborhoods in case of relocation in Switzerland
• Discounts proposed on social and cultural events, goodies and other services, thanks to the “H-Oxygène” association
• Signing up to our Mobility Plan and benefit from different advantages (discounts on public transportation, promotion of “Mobility” car fleet and discounts on electric bikes)
• Being able to enjoy our high-quality corporate restaurants, located in every hospital building, with employees’ discount.

Contact et envoi de candidature

Contact person in case of questions about this role: PD Dr Annick Mühlethaler-Mottet, Head of LHOP, 021 314 36 15

All of our applications are processed electronically. For this reason, we kindly ask you to apply exclusively by clicking on the APPLY button at the bottom of the advertisement.

Should you experience any problems with your application, you can consult our document "how to apply online". In case of technical issues, you can contact our Recruitment team who will help you (E-Mail schreiben / +41 21 314 85 70)

The CHUV applies the highest quality requirements as part of its recruitment process. In addition, mindful to promote workplace diversity and inclusion we strive to ensure equal treatment and avoid any discrimination. We are looking forward to receiving your application.

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