The LIT - Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy (foundation under civil law) (https://lit.eu/) - is a biomedical research center focusing on translational immunology in the fields of cancer immunotherapy, transplant rejection and autoimmunity. The objective of the LIT is to develop efficient immune therapeutic strategies in these areas. Close networking between University and University Hospital thus offers high research efficiency and an excellent research environment.

The Division of Functional Immune Cell Modulation, led by Professor Luca Gattinoni, is recruiting a highly motivated 

Postdoctoral fellow (m/f/d) – LG-2026-2



The position is available starting in June 2026 and is initially limited to two years with the possibility of extension.
 

Position Description
The successful candidate will join a cutting-edge research program harnessing the power of genome-wide CRISPR screens to uncover the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing mitochondrial transfer in T cells.
Mitochondrial transfer between T cells is an emerging paradigm with profound implications for T cell fitness, differentiation, and anti-tumor immunity. Although the biological significance of this process is increasingly recognized, mitochondrial transfer occurs at low rates and the molecular and genetic mechanisms that govern it remain largely unknown. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms is essential to develop strategies capable of enhancing transfer rates and ultimately harnessing this process for clinical translation in the context of adoptive T cell therapies. This project will deploy pooled gain-of-function CRISPR screens in primary T cells to systematically identify the key mediators of mitochondrial transfer, including genes controlling tunnel nanotube formation, mitochondrial packaging, and intercellular organelle trafficking.
Screen hits will be validated using orthogonal genetic and biochemical approaches, and functionally characterized with a focus on their capacity to boost mitochondrial transfer rates and enhance T cell metabolic fitness, differentiation, and effector function. This interdisciplinary project bridges functional genomics, organelle biology, and adoptive T cell therapy, with a clear pathway toward clinical translation.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Designing and executing genome-wide and focused CRISPR screens in primary T cells and other immune cell types
  • Developing and applying fluorescence-based reporter assays to quantify mitochondrial transfer at single-cell resolution for screen readouts
  • Performing deep sequencing of sgRNA libraries and conducting robust bioinformatic analysis to identify and rank screen hits
  • Validating candidates using gene overexpression or knockout approaches
  • Characterizing the functional consequences of identified regulators on:
    ◦ Mitochondrial dynamics, morphology, and membrane potential
    ◦ T cell metabolic fitness (Seahorse bioenergetics, SCENITH)
    ◦ T cell differentiation, stemness, and effector function
  • Utilizing advanced imaging techniques including confocal and live-cell microscopy to visualize intercellular organelle trafficking events
  •  Performing comprehensive phenotypic and functional profiling of T cells using high-dimensional flow cytometry, cytokine multiplex assays, proliferation and cytotoxicity assays
  • Preparing samples for high-throughput multi-omics analyses
  • Co-supervising students and contributing to a highly collaborative laboratory environment

The ideal candidate possesses:

  • A Ph.D. in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or a related discipline
  • Hands-on experience with CRISPR-based functional genomics, including pooled screen design, library cloning, lentiviral transduction, and next-generation sequencing
  • Proficiency in bioinformatic analysis of pooled CRISPR screen data (e.g., MAGeCK, BAGEL, or equivalent tools) and general command-line and scripting skills (Python/R)
  • Solid background in T cell immunobiology, including activation, differentiation, and effector/memory formation
  • Knowledge of mitochondrial biology, cellular metabolism, and/or intercellular communication mechanisms is highly advantageous
  • Demonstrated proficiency in flow cytometry, advanced microscopy, and molecular cloning techniques
  • A strong track record of publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with fluency in English
  • High motivation to work in an interdisciplinary, innovative, and collaborative research environment

We offer:

  • A vibrant international research environment at the forefront of immunotherapy innovation
  • Access to state-of-the-art technologies infunctional genomics, immunometabolism, T cell and organelle biology
  • Strong infrastructure for translational and clinical development
  • Flexible working hours
  • Flat hierarchies and rapid decision-making processes
  • A highly motivated and supportive team
  • Job ticket and excellent benefits
  • Outstanding funding and long-term scientific perspectives

The remuneration is based on TV-L.
The Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy targets to increase the share of women in the workforce. Therefore, qualified female candidates are explicitly encouraged to submit their applications. Moreover, the LIT advocates for the compatibility of family and career.
Disabled applicants (m/f/d) with equal qualifications will receive preferential treatment within the recruitment procedure. Please refer to your disability status already in your application.
Please note that expenses that may arise in the context of an eventual job interview cannot be reimbursed.
For more information, please contact Prof. Dr. Luca Gattinoni (luca.gattinoni@lit.eu). We are looking forward to receiving your detailed application. Please apply via our Online - Application Portal the reference LG-2026-2.
Application deadline is May 03d, 2026.

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