PhD Positions in Tumor Angiogenesis & Target Identification at Universitätsklinikum Essen, Germany

The Department of Dermatology (Director and Chair Prof. Dr. Dirk Schadendorf) offers 2 PhD positions in Tumor Angiogenesis & Target Identification in the group „Tumor-vessel interaction and Anti-angiogenic therapy in melanoma“ (Dr. rer. nat. Iris Helfrich)
The concept of anti-angiogenic cancer therapy seems at the first look simple: destroying tumor vasculature and depriving the tumor of nutrients and oxygen will ultimately induce tumor regression, but the long-term survival benefit in patients of targeting the VEGF-signaling pathway has not been so affirmative as initially hoped. A key finding in this context is that VEGF-A/VEGFR-2 blockage leads transiently to vessel remodeling and normalization of the tumor vascular bed, as described by increased pericyte coverage of tumor vessels. We were able to show that the level of mural cell differentiation and stabilization of the vascular wall significantly contribute to the response towards anti-VEGF therapy in human melanoma and corresponding mouse models (Helfrich et al., Clin Cancer Res 2009, Helfrich et al., J Ex Med 2010).
Project 1
Identification and evaluation of new targets for anti-angiogenic therapy in anti-VEGF- resistant tumors by using a spontaneous murine melanoma model but also human melanoma metastases taken at clinical relapse in patients undergoing adjuvant anti-VEGF treatment.
VEGF is a major chemoattractant for inflammatory cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells myeloid-derived suppressor cells and T-cells and the effect of anti-VEGF therapy on the infiltration of immune cells into tumors has not been fully characterized.
Project 2
Identification and analyses of tumor cell infiltration for the process of tumor progression and angiogenesis and its impact on response towards anti-angiogenic therapy.
We are looking for a highly motivated student with a strong background in molecular biology and interest in tumor biology and therapy. The willingness to work with mouse models is essential. Experience in cell culture and mouse experiments is a plus but not necessary.
Applicants should hold a MSc in cell/molecular biology or biochemistry. Candidates with equivalent research training holding a medical or veterinary degree can also apply.
To apply please send your CV, names of at least two referees and short informal description of yourself by postal to:

Dr. Iris Helfrich
Klinik für Dermatologie
Universitätsklinikum Essen
Hufelandstr. 55
45122 Essen, Germany

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Mail: iris.helfrich@uk-essen.de
Application Deadline : 30 April 2010