Major Cancer Biology Students

• 04/2026 - 07/2026 Student Assistant, supervision of biochemical and epigenetic laboratory practicals for students studying Biomedical Science and Medicine,Philipps University Marburg
• 01/2026 – 07/2026 Research Internship and Bachelor Thesis at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumor Research (IMT), Group of Prof. Dr. Uta-Maria Bauer, Philipps University Marburg 
• 17/09 - 03/10/2025 Research Internship at the Molecular Biology Laboratory of the neurosurgery clinic, Universitätsklinikum Giessen und Marburg (UKGM), Group of Prof. Dr. Jörg-Walter Bartsch, Philipps University Marburg  
• 11/08 - 29/08/2025 Laboratory Internship at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumor Research (IMT), Group of Prof. dr. Uta-Maria Bauer, Philipps University Marburg
•   09/2022 - 08/2023 Voluntary Social Year in the scientific field at the Center for Regenerative Therapies (CRTD), Group of Prof. Dr. Catherina G. Becker, Technische Universität (TU), Dresden

Docampo-Seara, A., Cosacak, M.I., Heilemann, K. et al. The microglia-derived protein Sema4ab attenuates regenerative neurogenesis after spinal cord injury in zebrafish. PLoS Biology. 2026. doi: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.3003865

My passion for scientific research first developed during a voluntary year before beginning my studies. Throughout my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences, with a focus on tumour biology and my thesis on small cell lung cancer, I developed my strong interest in molecular processes, their regulation and pathological alterations that drive cancer development. I am particularly interested in the interactions between tumour cells and the tumour microenvironment and their implications for the development of targeted and personalised therapies. 
Throughout my time at the DKFZ, I hope to deepen my understanding of the mechanisms underlying cancer development while further expanding my practical expertise in laboratory techniques, organoid models and bioinformatics. I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity to learn from inspiring researchers within the diverse academic environment of the DKFZ. In the future, I aspire to pursue a PhD and ultimately make a meaningful contribution to cancer research. 

josi.arnold (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 09/2026 – present: Working student in the division of Immunology (Prof. Veit Buchholz) at DKFZ in Heidelberg, Germany
• 10/2025 – 09/2026: Biological laboratory assistant in the division of Immunology (Prof. Veit Buchholz) at DKFZ in Heidelberg, Germany
• 06/2020 – 10/2025: Biological laboratory assistant in the division of Cellular Immunology (Prof. Hans-Reimer Rodewald) at DKFZ in Heidelberg, Germany
• 07/2019 – 10/2019: ERASMUS+ internship in the research group of Göran Landberg at Sahlgrenska Cancer Center (University of Gothenburg) in Gothenburg, Sweden 

Dietlein, N., Wang, X., Metz, J., Disson, O., Shang, F., Beyersdörffer, C., Rodríguez Correa, E., Lipka, D. B., Begus-Nahrmann, Y., Kosinsky, R. L., Johnsen, S. A., Lecuit, M., Höfer, T., & Rodewald, H. R. (2022). Usp22 is an intracellular regulator of systemic emergency hematopoiesis. Science immunology, 7(78), eabq2061. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciimmunol.abq2061

Port, F., Strein, C., Stricker, M., Rauscher, B., Heigwer, F., Zhou, J., Beyersdörffer, C., Frei, J., Hess, A., Kern, K., Lange, L., Langner, N., Malamud, R., Pavlović, B., Rädecke, K., Schmitt, L., Voos, L., Valentini, E., & Boutros, M. (2020). A large-scale resource for tissue-specific CRISPR mutagenesis in Drosophila. eLife, 9, e53865. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.53865

My interest in cancer biology began during my training as a biological laboratory assistant at the DKFZ, where I became fascinated by the complexity of cancer and the molecular mechanisms underlying its development. Through several years of experience in immunology research, I developed a strong interest in hematopoietic stem cell differentiation and the regulation of immune cell function. Bringing these interests together, I am especially intrigued by the interplay between the immune system and cancer, particularly how immune responses influence tumorigenesis and progression. I am motivated by the potential to advance immunotherapeutic approaches, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cell therapy, for patients whose tumors respond poorly to current treatments. My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of innovative, targeted immunotherapies that harness the body’s natural immune defenses to improve patients’ quality of life.

c.beyersdoerffer (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• Since 10/2026 | Student Research Assistant, Pediatric Immuno-Oncology, Research Group of Dr. Dr. Franziska Blaeschke, DKFZ, Heidelberg
• 06/2026–09/2026 | Student Research Assistant, Wittbrodt Group, Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), Heidelberg University
  Investigation of genetic influences on visuomotor behavior in medaka (Oryzias latipes) using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing.
• 02/2022–09/2023 | Biological Laboratory Technician, Rheumatology Research Laboratory, Heidelberg University Hospital. 
  Independent performance and analysis of molecular and cell biology experiments.

Claus, M., Freitag, M., Ewald, M. et al. (2024). Immunological effects of CD19.CAR-T cell therapy in systemic sclerosis: an extended case study. Arthritis Research & Therapy, 26, 211. doi.org/10.1186/s13075-024-03451-1

Freitag, M., Kolb, P., Falcone, V., et al. (2026). Fcγ-receptor-activation by circulating immune complexes in systemic autoimmune diseases and its reduction by CD19-CAR T cell therapy. Rheumatology, 65(3), keaf627. doi.org/10.1093/rheumatology/keaf627

My interest in cancer biology developed during my work in rheumatology research, where I contributed to a project investigating the immunological effects of CD19 CAR-T cell therapy in autoimmune diseases. This experience sparked my fascination with the therapeutic potential of immune modulation and motivated me to explore its applications in cancer research.
I am particularly interested in the complex interactions between tumors and the immune system, especially the mechanisms underlying immune evasion and therapeutic resistance. Beyond tumor immunology, I am fascinated by how dysregulated signaling pathways and gene regulatory mechanisms contribute to cancer development and progression.
During my master's studies, I hope to broaden my understanding of cancer biology and explore different experimental and computational approaches to studying these processes. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to translational research that bridges fundamental discoveries and clinical applications, helping to develop more effective, personalized cancer therapies and improve patients' lives.

meike.ewald (at) kitz-heidelberg. de

LinkedIn profile

• 10/2025 – 06/2026 Student’s research assistant at DKFZ, Junior group of Epithelium Microbiome Interactions Laboratory by Dr. Jens Puschhof (Division Microbiome and Cancer by Dr. Eran Elinav)
  - 10/2025 – 12/2025 Research Internship
  - 01/2026 – 06/2026 Bachelor’s thesis project 
• 04/2025 – 08/2025 Tutor for biochemistry, molecular- and cellular biology at University of Heidelberg 

Ouyang, K. et al. Cell (2026) The Cancer-Associated Microbe Library reveals functional host-microbe interactions during colorectal cancer progression (manuscript in revision)

My bachelors in bioscience introduced me to a broad range of biological sciences and research possibilities. Next to molecular biology, immunology and biomedicine, cancer research has always interested me most. My time in the Epithelium Microbiome Interactions Laboratory at DKFZ, investigating the gut microbiome as well as colorectal cancer with the use of patient derived organoids, deepened my interest in cancer research and strengthened my desire to study at DKFZ. I plan to explore the research themes of DKFZ as well as different cancer research areas with the great possibilities this program has to offer. In laboratory rotations and internships, my goal will be to expand my experimental skillset and learn more about the biology of cancer while gaining insights into research opportunities. Pursuing a PhD and following career in academia in this international community of cancer research is my goal after this Master.  

clara.foerster (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 06/2025 – 06/2026: Chancellor’s Summer Research Fellowship on ‘Isolation, culture and development of cell line of Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) from patient-derived malignant ascites for use in various cytotoxic assays’, at the Department of Biotechnology, SRIHER (DU).

• 05/2025 – 06/2025: Research Intern at Sri Ramachandra Innovation Incubation Centre (SRIIC) – Worked on developing an eco-enzyme-based solution for the degradation of casein-rich dairy wastewater, involving isolation and screening of protease-producing bacteria, microbial culturing, and wastewater analysis.

• 08/2024 – 09/2024: Research Intern at the Stem Cell and Regenerative Laboratory, SRIHER – Gained hands-on experience in the culture and maintenance of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs), including cell passaging and cryopreservation.

My interest in cancer biology emerged from a fundamental question: how do subtle molecular alterations transform a tightly regulated cell into one capable of uncontrolled growth and metastasis? This curiosity deepened through my exposure to oncology environments, where observing radiation planning and imaging techniques such as PET-CT highlighted the complexity of cancer diagnosis and treatment. I aim to further develop my expertise in molecular oncology and apply this knowledge to investigate radiation response mechanisms, ultimately pursuing doctoral research focused on therapy resistance. My long-term goal is to contribute to translating these findings into approaches that improve outcomes for cancer patients.

anushka.garg (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 23/06/2025-15/08/2025: Laboratory internship at the group of David Llobet Navàs, Ph.D. IDIBELL, Barcelona
• 01/07/2022-07/07/2022: Laboratory internship at the group of Juan M Zapata, Ph.D, Instituto de investigación biomédica de Madrid, Madrid
• 01/03/2026-01/07/2026: Student liaison at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès

I am completely fascinated by the complexity of cancer and the uniqueness of each case. This is the reason why I have a deep interest in personalized therapies, especially CAR-T and TCR engineering. However, until now I haven’t had the opportunity to get trained in these areas. Now, pursuing my master's at the DKFZ, I am excited to learn about these therapies and dive deeper into the intricacies of cancer, but I am even more excited to be part of an environment where dedicated researchers push the boundaries of science to change outcomes for patients. Looking ahead, my goal is to pursue an industrial Ph.D. in immunotherapy. I hope to join the dynamic translational environment of start-ups and spin-offs, working to transform laboratory discoveries into tangible treatments.

anna.gatellpuig (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 03/2026-09/2026: Internship and Bachelor thesis at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumor Research (IMT), Research group of Prof. Dr. Uta-Maria Bauer, Philipps University Marburg, Germany
• 04/2026-06/2026: Student Assistant in laboratory practicals for students studying Biomedical Science and Medicine, Philipps University Marburg, Germany
• 09/2025: Research Internship at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumor Research (IMT), Research group of Prof. Dr. Uta-Maria Bauer, Philipps University Marburg, Germany
• 10/2024-02/2026: Tutor for biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Philipps University Marburg, Germany

My interests focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression, particularly the interaction between tumor cells and the immune system. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I became increasingly fascinated by how genetic and epigenetic alterations contribute to cancer and how the tumor microenvironment influences disease progression and responses to treatment. My bachelor’s thesis further strengthened my interest in cancer research and motivated me to explore the mechanisms that could be targeted to improve therapeutic approaches. I look forward to deepening my knowledge in tumor biology, gaining experience with new experimental and computational techniques, and exploring different areas of cancer research. I am particularly excited to learn from leading researchers at the DKFZ and to broaden my understanding of the complex processes that drive cancer. In the future, I hope to contribute to research that advances our understanding of diseases and helps develop more effective and targeted cancer therapies.

liz.heuer (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 10/2024 - present: Student Assistant and Bachelor's Thesis Student in Stem Cell Niche Heterogeneity Research in the Bageritz Lab, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University
• 10/2024 - 10/2025: Student Assistant in Neurosurgical Research in the Herold-Mende Lab, University Hospital Heidelberg
• 02/2024 - 10/2024: Student Assistant in the Drosophila Facility in the Boutros Lab, DKFZ
• 10/2021 - 09/2022: Full-time Research Technician in Next Generation Sequencing and Assay Development at the Centre for Molecular Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg

Schütze, L., Musillo, M.J., Popova, B., Engel, N., Holzwarth, V., Hild, M.L., Geissdorf, A., Gross, J.N., Lohmann, I., Bageritz, J., 2025. Gradient of Wnt signaling facilitates Mef2 heterogeneity and limits commitment of the developmental muscle progenitor pool. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.07.17.665417 (preprint, manuscript in revision)

My interest in cancer began while working as a Research Technician in NGS-based tumor diagnostics, where I discovered the genomic complexity of this disease. I am fascinated by the diversity of cancer, particularly how genomic alterations, epigenetics, and the microenvironment shape tumor development and progression. Over the past two years during my undergraduate studies, I have contributed to a research project investigating tumor heterogeneity and Wnt signaling in embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. This deepened my interest in cancer stem cells, cell fate regulation, and tumor plasticity, and how these processes influence tumor recurrence, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Looking ahead, I aim to broaden my understanding of different cancer types and explore how fundamental biological insights can be used to develop innovative therapeutic strategies and personalized treatment approaches. I am excited to learn from the diverse research environment at DKFZ and contribute to translational research that improves patient outcomes.

m.hild (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 10/2025–01/2026 | Undergraduate Special Project, METU, Ankara, Türkiye | Supervisor: Prof. Ahmet Acar. Computational cancer immunogenomics and neoantigen prediction from matched tumor–normal whole-exome sequencing and tumor RNA-seq data in metastatic colorectal cancer
• 07/2025–09/2025 | Research Intern, Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany | Supervisor: Dr. Gürkan Bal. Mast-cell culture, FACS staining and flow-cytometry data analysis
• 02/2025 | Intern, Genoks Genetic Diagnostic Center, Ankara, Türkiye. Gained hands-on experience in clinical molecular diagnostics

My scientific interests lie at the intersection of cancer biology, immunology, and computational biology. Through my undergraduate research, I became particularly interested in cancer immunogenomics, tumor-specific genetic alterations, and the identification of neoantigens using sequencing data. My research internship also strengthened my interest in experimental immunology and the integration of wet-lab approaches with computational analysis. During my master’s studies at Heidelberg University and DKFZ, I hope to deepen my understanding of tumor biology, develop advanced bioinformatics and data-analysis skills, and explore how computational methods can help answer biologically and clinically relevant questions.

zeynep.kam (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 03/2026 – 09/2026: Bachelor Thesis in the research group of Prof. Dr. Famulok at the Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn 
• 10/2025 – 12/2025: Internship in the research group of Dr. den Brave at the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bonn
• 10/2024 – 07/2025: Internship in the research group of Prof. Dr. Famulok at the Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn
• 10/2022 – 06/2023: Voluntary social year in the research group of Dr. Miething at the Center for Translational Cell Research, University Hospital Freiburg

Maas-Bauer, K., Stell, AV., Yan, KL. et al. ROCK1/2 signaling contributes to corticosteroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease. Nat Commun 15, 446 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-44703-7

The complex mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression, particularly the changes in cellular metabolism and signaling that malignant cells undergo, fascinate me. My initial interest in cancer biology was sparked in my voluntary social year, where I worked on demethylating therapies in acute myeloid leukemia. Driven by the wish to better understand the underlying cellular mechanisms, I pursued my undergraduate studies, during which my interest in metabolism and cellular signaling grew. Throughout this master’s program, I hope to follow these interests, broaden my knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer, and advance my experimental and bioinformatic skills. I am very grateful and excited to learn from the many leading researchers at DKFZ and its partner institutions. In the future, I hope to pursue a PhD and ultimately contribute to research that can translate into improved treatment options for patients, enhancing their survival and quality of life. 

rosaphiline.nestor (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 04/2024 – 09/2026: Research Technician, Meyer Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL), Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
• 06/2023 – 12/2023: Biology Intern, Encoded Library Technologies (ELT) group, GSK, Boston, MA, USA
• 01/2023 – 05/2023: Intern, Acumen Detection Inc., Syracuse, NY, USA
• 06/2022 – 05/2023: Research Assistant, Pignoni Laboratory, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA

Prabakar R, Chapin S, Lin Y, Netz D, Pruss D, Meyer H. Differentiated thymic epithelial cells adopt gene-expression and micro-environmental niches unique to the thymus. The Journal of Immunology 215 (Supplement 1): vkag141.1714 (2026). Conference abstract. https://doi.org/10.1093/jimmun/vkag141.1714

Rishvanth K Prabakar, Sarah R Chapin, Yong Lin, Stephen J Staklinski, Deena M Netz, Madison E Lapine, Dominic Pruss, Todor Cvetanovic, Salome L Carcy, Joshua Torres, Alexander Grosh, Alexandra J Kiedrowski, Harvey I Pass, Ralph Mosca, Claire Regan, Jonathan Preall, Adam Siepel, Hannah V Meyer. Gene regulatory logic underlying the differentiation of mixed lineages in human thymic epithelial cells. bioRxiv 2026.10.29.762771 (posted November 02, 2026)

I am interested in how a cell’s interactions shape its behavior, from the partners a transcription factor binds to the tissue niche a cell occupies. At CSHL, I studied thymic epithelial cell niches and mapped neuronal innervation of the thymus, which showed me how strongly stromal and neural signals direct the cells around them. Tumors co-opt similar signals; cancer-associated fibroblasts, blood vessels and invading nerves can fuel tumor growth, immune evasion and metastatic spread. I am particularly interested in how tumor cells recruit and reprogram their surrounding environment, and how distant organs are prepared to receive metastases. At DKFZ, I hope to address these questions in tumor models while strengthening my skills through in vivo work, spatial methods and bioinformatics. In the long term, I plan to pursue a PhD on the microenvironmental drivers of metastasis and to help develop therapies that target them.

deena.netz (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 09/2025 – 07/2026: Research assistant at the Laboratory of Chromatin Biology, Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia, Prof. Dr. Giorgi Zaalishvili. Project: “Geno- and Cytotoxic Effects of Topoisomerase I Poisoning and PARP1 Inhibition in A549 Cells”
• 02/2024 – 08/2024: Junior research assistant at the Laboratory of Chromatin Biology, Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia, Prof. Dr. Giorgi Zaalishvili. Project: “The Effects of Rubitecan and Olaparib on Telomeric Spatial Distribution and DNA Damage in A549 Cells”
• 02/2026 – 07/2026: Biology Intelligence Expert, Mercor, San-Francisco, USA (remote)
• 02/2025 – 07/2026: Laboratory assistant at Molecular and Cell Biology (Laboratory Course), Prof. Dr. Nina Kulikova, Cellular Immunology Laboratory, Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
• 02/2025 – 02/2026: Teaching assistant at Free University of Tbilisi, Courses: Natural Sciences, Biology; Tbilisi, Georgia
• 04/2024 – 07/2024: Team Leader at Avicenna International Biology Olympiad (AIBO 2024), Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Since my undergraduate studies, I have been fascinated by how cells keep their genomes intact and how cancer cells turn the DNA damage response to their advantage under therapeutic stress. Many anti-cancer treatments rely on inducing DNA damage, yet tumors frequently adapt and survive, making this interplay central to understanding both tumor progression and therapy resistance. At the DKFZ, I want to approach these questions experimentally, build a solid methodological foundation, and learn how mechanistic insights are translated into clinical strategies. I am excited to join a research environment where pioneering scientists bridge basic molecular mechanisms with clinical applications. In the long term, I aim to contribute to research that turns fundamental insights into more effective, precise therapies, working toward the vision of a life without cancer.

Giorgi.papulashvili (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 12/2025 – 04/2026: Research internship at the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem), Bangalore, India
• 05/2025 – 15/07/2025: Summer internship at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, India
• 05/2024 – 06/2024: Industrial internship in Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Hyderabad, India

Polamraju, S.M., Manochkumar, J., Ganeshbabu, M. et al. Unveiling astaxanthin: biotechnological advances, delivery systems and versatile applications in nutraceuticals and cosmetics. Arch Microbiol 207, 45 (2025).

My interest in cancer lies in understanding the interplay between the tumour microenvironment, malignant cells and cancer stem cells in driving tumour progression and therapeutic resistance. My Bachelor's thesis on the generation of a reporter cell line for BCAS3 allowed me to investigate protein dynamics in cells and strengthened my interest in understanding how cytoskeletal regulators influence tumour development and metastasis. My long-term goal is to pursue a PhD in the study of gastric cancers. The translational research collaborations between the DFKZ, the NCT and the university hospital represent the type of integrated research environment I aspire to train in and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this research ecosystem!

saimanojna.polamraju (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• Research Assistant, Cancer Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore (June 2025 – August 2026): Investigated hypoxic stress granule assembly, gene expression regulation, and their roles in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases (ALS/FTD).
• Research Assistant, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bangalore, India (September 2024 – May 2025): Evaluated the anti-inflammatory potential of marine extracts by analysing cytokine expression at the RNA and protein levels in macrophages.
• Research Intern, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA (January 2024 – August 2024): Contributed to developing nanobody–drug conjugates using protein purification and click chemistry, and generated APEX2 fusion proteins for proximity labelling.

My scientific interests lie at the intersection of RNA biology and cancer, particularly how RNA regulation and gene expression influence cancer cell behaviour and tumor progression. I am especially interested in metastasis and tumor dormancy- how cancer cells leave the primary tumor, spread to distant tissues, and sometimes remain dormant for years before becoming active again. I find it fascinating that cells can switch between these very different states, and I want to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive these transitions and allow cancer cells to survive treatment. I am particularly curious about how RNA regulation influences these processes. In the future, I hope to pursue a PhD and investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes and identify vulnerabilities that could be targeted to improve cancer treatment. 

janani.ramanathan (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 02/2026 – 07/2026: Research Intern, Lab of Prof. O. Tsintsilonis, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece (Project: peripheral blood immune signatures as predictive biomarkers of immune-related adverse events in checkpoint-inhibitor-treated cancer patients, using 19-color spectral flow cytometry and multiplex cytokine assays)
• 06/2024 – 06/2025: Research Intern, Center for the Study of Haematological Malignancies (CSHM), Nicosia, Cyprus

A multi-omics analysis of an exhausted T cells’ molecular signature in pan-cancer. J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(7), 765. doi.org/10.3390/jpm14070765

Epitranscriptomics regulation of CD70, CD80, and TIGIT in cancer immunity. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(12), 5772. doi.org/10.3390/ijms26125772

Opposing roles of YY1 and RKIP in cancer progression and therapy resistance. Biochim. Biophys. Acta Rev. Cancer 2025, 1880(6), 189488. doi.org/10.1016/j.bbcan.2025.189488

Comprehensive bioinformatic characterization of CD70, CD80, and TIGIT as diagnostic, prognostic, and immune biomarkers in pan-cancer. Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(6), 641. doi.org/10.3390/cimb48060641

I am interested in how tumours escape the immune system and how this can be overcome therapeutically. My previous work in Cyprus and Athens focused on T cell exhaustion, immune checkpoints (CD70, CD80, TIGIT) and biomarkers of response to immunotherapy, combining multi-omics analysis with wet-lab immunology such as spectral flow cytometry and T cell functional assays. In Heidelberg, I want to deepen my experimental training in cancer immunology and immunotherapy, especially T cell engineering and the tumour immune microenvironment. I plan to carry out my lab internships and master thesis in immunology-focused groups, and afterwards to pursue a PhD at the interface of cancer, immunity and precision medicine.

christospanagiotis.rigopoulos (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

14.04.2025 – present Student researcher at the DKFZ, department: “Epithelium Microbiome Interactions” led by Dr. Jens Puschhof

• Independent Research Project (Oct 2026 – present)
  Investigating CRC-associated bacterial communities in a human colorectal organ-on-a-chip model (working title)
• Bachelor Thesis (Apr 2026 – Sep 2026)
• Research collaborations (research contribution through the Puschhof Lab):
  DKTK BACTORG consortium (since Jan 2026)
  GenoMiCC (since Jul 2026) 
  SynthImmune (since Sep 2026) 
  interdisciplinary research collaborations across multiple German and international institutions
• Reviewing activity (with PI) for the journals npj precision oncology, Seminars in Immunopathology
• Conference attendance: Life-inspired Engineering Molecular Systems Conference (2026)

Ouyang, K. et al. Cell (2026) The Cancer-Associated Microbe Library reveals functional host-microbe interactions during colorectal cancer progression (manuscript in revision)

During my time as a student researcher in Jens Puschhof’s lab, I gained extensive experience with organoid models and microbiological techniques. For example, I profiled the transcriptomic impacts of several colorectal cancer-associated bacterial strains on healthy, polyp and cancer organoids. During my Master’s studies, I aim to build on this experience by exploring diverse research topics and working with different research groups. I am particularly interested in immuno-oncology and in understanding how interactions between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment influence cancer development and treatment responses. I look forward to expanding my expertise in advanced experimental techniques, gaining new scientific perspectives, and exchanging ideas with researchers from different fields and backgrounds. In the long term, I aspire to pursue a PhD and build an academic research career focused on elucidating cancer biology and translating mechanistic insights into improved therapeutic strategies.

darlineroseldagmar.roessner (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 01/11/2026 – 30/06/2026: Paid internship and bachelor’s thesis by the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) in the Cancer’s biochemistry research group, Department of Biology, Universitat de Girona
• 01/06/2025 – 30/06/2025: Internship in the Cancer’s biochemistry research group, Department of Biology, Universitat de Girona
• 01/07/2024 – 31/07/2024: Internship in the Hospital’s laboratory from the Serveis de Salut Integrats Baix Empordà, Palamós (Catalunya)

I chose to specialize in Cancer biology because I wanted to help improve people’s lives. It is a complex challenge that forces you to look at the same problem from multiple perspectives, combining different fields such as immunology and genetics. These two disciplines caught my attention during my internships, as I believe they are fundamental to the future of personalized medicine. I enjoy doing hands-on research in the laboratory to discover how we can overcome cancer’s intricate mechanisms and develop innovative therapeutic approaches. Technologies like CAR-T cells, microfluidics and CRISPR-Cas are some of the biomedical innovations that I would love to work with in my career. My future plan is to continue in academia pursuing a PhD to investigate new therapies and diagnostic techniques, while focusing on translating scientific discoveries into improved patient outcomes.

josep.saurinaidelhoyo (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 03/2026-07/2026: Research Internship and Bachelor‘s thesis at the Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Research group of Prof. Dr. Matthias Lauth, Philipps University Marburg, Germany
• 05/2026-06/2026: Student Assistant in laboratory practicals for students studying Biomedical Science, Philipps University Marburg, Germany
• 01/08/2025-31/08/2025: Research Internship at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumor Research (IMT), Research group of Dr. Jacqueline Mermoud, Philipps University Marburg, Germany

During my Bachelor’s studies, I became fascinated by how cancer cells survive and adapt, particularly by regaining stem-cell-like properties to evade therapy. For my Bachelor’s thesis, I studied Leucettinib-group SMKIs and their effects on the cell cycle and survival of PDAC cells, strengthening my interest in targeted therapies and off-target effects. In my Master’s, I hope to deepen this knowledge and gain further experimental and computational skills, including single-cell methods and microscopy image processing. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from DKFZ researchers and build a strong foundation for a future PhD. 
Long term, I hope to contribute to an advanced molecular understanding of cancer and support the development of therapeutics with fewer adverse drug reactions.

maren.schneider (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 02/2026 – 03/2026: Pediatric research institute Citta della Speranza with Target Discovery and Biology of neuroblastoma group; Padua, Italy
• 07/2025: Institute for Medical Research with Stem cell and hematology research group; University of Belgrade, Serbia
• 08/2022: MOL institute; Belgrade, Serbia

My undergraduate thesis project investigating chromatin associated proteins in neuroblastoma opened my eyes to the epigenetic complexity and clinical challenges of pediatric tumors. Because these epigenetic marks are inherently reversible, they present an intriguing window for therapeutic intervention. Knowing that conventional treatment approaches in many cases carry heavy long-term consequences for young patients, I am eager to explore how novel tools such as epigenome editing and targeted immunotherapies could offer safer, more precise alternatives. 
I am especially looking forward to the hands-on lab rotations and practical modules, where I can learn to design my own experiments and acquire modern experimental techniques. I believe that early involvement in DKFZ’s translational research environment could facilitate a smooth transition from master’s to doctoral studies, a path I intend to pursue. 

sofija.stojanovic (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 12.2025–02.2026  Industrial Intern, Hormone Team, Boditech Med, South Korea  
• 02.2025–11.2025  Research Intern, Prof. Su Ryeon Seo’s Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Kangwon National University, South Korea  
• 07.2024–08.2024  Industrial Intern, R&D Team, BioCelTran, South Korea

I am interested in investigating inflammatory pathways and understanding how they contribute to cancer development and progression. During my BSc in Molecular Bioscience, I researched inflammation-related signalling pathways. In particular, I am interested in the NF-κB transcription factor axis and its role in regulating both acute and chronic inflammation, as well as how its dysregulation contributes to cancer progression. I hope to explore therapeutic strategies targeting inflammatory transcription factors to develop potential treatments for inflammation-driven cancers.
At DKFZ, I hope to deepen my understanding of cancer biology, and strengthen my experimental skills in investigating cancer inflammation. I aim to contribute to research translating our understanding of inflammation into more effective cancer treatments.

yunyi.tiow (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 10/2026 – present: Working Student in the Division of Neuropathology (Prof. Dr. Andreas von Deimling, PD Dr. Stefan Pusch) at DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany
• 03/2026 – 08/2026: Research Internship and Bachelor's Thesis in the Division of Neuropathology (Prof. Dr. Andreas von Deimling, PD Dr. Stefan Pusch) at DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany
• 09/2025 – 12/2025: Research Internship in the Division of Molecular Neurobiology (Prof. Dr. Ana Martin-Villalba) at DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany
• 07/2022: Scholarship-Funded High School Internship in the Life Sciences Lab at DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany

My interest in cancer biology began during my high school internship at the DKFZ, where I was introduced to the complexity of cancer research. Throughout my Bachelor's studies and research internships at the DKFZ, I developed a strong interest in cancer biology and gained valuable experience in studying the molecular mechanisms underlying brain tumor development and progression.
At the same time, my experiences across different research fields during my Bachelor's studies sparked my interest in immunology and its role in cancer. During my Master's studies, I hope to build on my background in cancer research while expanding my knowledge of tumor immunology, innovative therapeutic approaches, and bioinformatics methods to better understand complex biological processes.
In the long term, I aim to contribute to cancer research by understanding how molecular mechanisms can be targeted to develop and improve innovative immunotherapies, with the goal of advancing more effective treatments for cancer patients.

l.visser (at) dkfz. de

• 03/2026 – 06/2026: Voluntary Internship Business & Portfolio Development Cellular Therapeutics, medac GmbH, Wedel
• 05/2025 – 12/2025: Voluntary Internship and Bachelor thesis at Medical University of Vienna, Department of Dermatology, Univ.-Prof. Dr. Georg Stary
• 05/2023 – 04/2025: Student Assistant at LIMES Institute, Life & Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Prof. Dr. Irmgard Förster
• 10/2024 – 11/2024: Internship at German Red Cross Blood Donation Service/ Goethe University Frankfurt, Prof. Dr. Halvard Bönig

My interest in Cancer Biology comes from my fascination with the mechanisms underlying immunological diseases, especially cancer. During my Bachelor’s program, courses in immunology, genetics and molecular biology deepened my interest in the complex regulatory networks driving cancer. My interest is particularly focused on immunological approaches to treat cancer and improve patient outcomes, including CAR therapies. I have already had the opportunity to work with CAR T cells which inspired me to extend my understanding of translating scientific discoveries into innovative immunotherapies. I am especially excited about the collaboration with the DKFZ as it is an inspiring setting to engage with leading researchers and learn more about molecular and cellular alterations that contribute to tumor development. My long-term goal is to pursue a PhD researching translational immunotherapy, aiming to advance engineered immune-cell therapies for cancer.

caroline.wessing (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 03/03/2025 – 08/08/2025 Research Internship at the Group of Anna Obenauf, PhD, Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), Vienna
• 13/11/2023 – 30/06/2024 Student Assistant at the Group of Prof. Didac Carmona-Gutiérrez, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, University of Graz
• 07/08/2023 – 29/09/2023 Research Internship & Bachelor’s Thesis project at the Group of Prof. Achim Lass, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, University of Graz

I have long been fascinated by the molecular mechanisms that underlie and drive human diseases. Later in my bachelor’s studies, I developed a particular interest in the molecular basis of cancer metastasis, therapeutic resistance, and relapse. Understanding these complex processes and identifying ways to target them for therapeutic benefit have become central goals of mine. In the future, I would like to focus more on rare and difficult-to-treat types of cancer. I finally aim to become a researcher who contributes meaningfully to this field and advances the overarching mission of improving the lives and outcomes of patients. In pursuit of my ambition, I plan to continue my academic path with a PhD following my master’s studies.

matthias.almer (at) dkfz. de

• 06/2025 – 08/2025: Internship at Fresenius SE - Corporate Development – Research Office, Biomedical Project Management
• 10/2024 – 04/2025: Bachelor Thesis at University of Bonn - Department for Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Frede Lab
• 10/2024 – 02/2024: Tutoring Immunology at University of Bonn
• 04/2024 – 07/2024: Internship at University of Oxford – Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Rehwinkel lab; STING Packaging into Extracellular Vesicles

The complexity of cancer is what motivates me to study it in depth. To get the whole picture, research areas such as immunology, physiology and genetics must be combined. I see my time at the DKFZ as the ideal opportunity to look deeper into these connected research areas while focussing on cancer biology. Working on CAR-T cell therapy during my internship at Fresenius SE allowed me to see how scientific findings translate into clinical application. I now aim to focus on cancer treatment mechanisms, the influence of environmental factors, and translational approaches that bridge laboratory research and clinical application. My ultimate goal is to bring scientific knowledge closer to patients. 

katharina.fleischer (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 07/2025 - 09/2025: Bachelors thesis at the research group of Dr. Daniel Andergassen at the Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the Technical University of Munich
• 10/2021 - 06/2025: Research Assistant at Eisbach Bio, Munich, Germany
• 07/2021 - 09/2021: Student internship at Eisbach Bio, Munich, Germany

Driven by a desire to help and heal people, I have always been fascinated by therapeutics and the drug development pipeline. To gain a practical understanding, I pursued a 2-year training as a lab assistant and gained hands-on experience at a cancer research startup. The fulfilling work there, combined with my bachelor's in biology, confirmed my commitment to oncology. I am now excited to join the DKFZ for my master's studies. I am highly motivated to contribute to the center's mission in Translational Oncology and look forward to research focused on developing precise, specific cancer therapeutics and advancing personalized medicine for patients around the globe.

lucas.kalczynski (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 07/2024 – 12/2024: Research internship at Genetic and Genomic Sequencing Lab, Lok Nayak Hospital, Delhi, India, under the guidance of Dr Sunil Kumar Polipalli. 

• 06/2023 – 07/2023: Summer internship at Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, India, under the guidance of Dr Ajay Thakur. 

My interest in cancer biology began during my undergraduate studies, where I was captivated by the complexity of tumor development and its multifaceted causes. Through lectures, discussions, and research papers, I came to understand that cancer is more than just uncontrolled cell growth— it is a complex disease driven by intricate genetic and molecular alterations, which derived my desire to delve deeper into understanding these mechanisms and their impact on human health.  Moreover, I am curious to explore how telomerase inhibitors can be used as therapeutic strategies to target tumor cells, as telomerase gets reactivated in nearly 90% of cancer cases. My long-term goal is to improve patient outcomes in cancer therapy. As a Cancer Biology student at DKFZ, I aspire to contribute to the vision of a life without cancer.

navpreet.kaur (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 01.03. to 31.08.2025   Voluntary internship at Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG in Biberach, Department of “Viral Therapy Center”, Department: “Development Core Technologies”, analysis of oncolytic viruses, development and validation of assays for titer and particle quantification

• 01.03. to 30.11.2024   Internship semester and bachelor thesis at Stockholm University, MBW, Samakovlis Group

My long-term goal is to pursue a PhD to deepen my knowledge in cancer research, with a strong focus on personalized and advanced therapies. I am especially interested in contributing to the development of innovative treatment approaches in the fields of virotherapy and gene therapy. By expanding my understanding of the mechanisms underlying cancer development, as well as the role of virology and the immune system, I aim to create new therapeutic strategies. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to the development of new and more precise treatments for patients with cancer, genetic disorders, or other complex diseases where conventional small-molecule therapies are no longer sufficient. In the future, I hope to work in a research environment where I can combine different fields like molecular biology, immunology, and biotechnology to help bring new discoveries from the lab into real medical use.

antonia.kelm (at) dkfz. de

• 09/2025 – present: Microscopy assistant, supervised by Dr. Charlotte Kaplan, CellNetworks Core Technology Platform, BioQuant, Heidelberg (Germany)

• 03/2025 – 07/2025: Bachelor’s Thesis at German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg (Germany), group of Dr. Stefan Pusch – “Characterisation of post-translational modifications of EMP3 in a glioblastoma cell line”

• 09/2024 – 01/2025: Research Internship at Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm (Sweden), group of Prof. Dr. Malin Wickström – “Metabolic effects of the ROCK2 inhibitor KD025 in neuroblastoma”

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to join the Master’s program at the DKFZ and become part of this inspiring community, which shares the goal of improving the lives of cancer patients. Facing the challenges of this diverse and complex disease, I am impressed by the collaboration between patients and scientists in developing explanations and solutions through the translation of reliable diagnoses, prognoses, and innovative treatments. My internship in neuroblastoma research sparked my interest in drug development and pediatric cancer. During my Bachelor's thesis, I gained insight into the field of neuropathology, which aroused my interest in brain tumor research. I am encouraged to contribute positively to the development of targeted therapy, translational research, and precision medicine and to further expand my knowledge of various methods and experimental models. 

vanessa.klimek (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 10/2024 – 08/2025: Laboratory Associate, Wax-it Histology Services Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada
• 05/2022 – 08/2022: Laboratory Assistant, NovoBind Livestock Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, Canada
• 05/2021 – 12/2021: Laboratory Assistant, SignalChem Biotech Inc., Richmond, BC, Canada

Optimizing variant-specific therapeutic SARS-CoV-2 decoys using deep-learning-guided molecular dynamics simulations

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-27636-x

My interest in cancer biology, sparked during my undergraduate courses, was solidified through my work in the biotech industry. These experiences gave me insights into the importance of research in advancing cancer diagnostics and treatments. I am fascinated by cancer's molecular complexities, with a particular interest in immuno-oncology, cancer proteomics, and metastasis, especially as they apply to hereditary and pediatric cancers. Through this Master’s program, I hope to expand my knowledge and develop the skills necessary to contribute to innovative research. Looking ahead, I aim to continue my professional journey through a PhD or a research role in industry, where I can help translate scientific insights into effective therapies for patients.

leon.lin (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 08/2024– 11/2024: Undergraduateresearch project and thesis within theDNA Damage & Cancer Therapy Group at the St Vincent’s Institute of Medical Research(Melbourne, Australia)
• 03/2025 –06/2025: Tutor at aUniversity of Melbourne residential college

I am driven by a desire to understand the complex interplay between malignant cells and the immune system, and how this can be harnessed to help change outcomes for patients. My undergraduate studies and thesis project in ovarian cancer, completed down under in Australia, sparked my curiosity and gave me first-hand insight into working in research laboratories and collaborating in diverse, international teams. Now, back home in Germany and pursuing my master’s at the DKFZ, I am excited to be part of an environment where dedicated researchers push the boundaries of biomedical science. I look forward to broadening my horizons, exploring new laboratory and bioinformatics techniques, and continuing to ask the questions that challenge and fascinate me. In the future, I hope to pursue a PhD and contribute to research that makes a meaningful difference.

sina.maiza (at) dkfz. de

• 05/2025 – present: student assistant – Knop lab, Centre for molecular biology, University of Heidelberg
• 08/2024-02/2025: working student job – protein purification department at BioMEX
• 04/2024-07/2024: student assistant – Jäscke Lab, Institute for pharmacy and molecular biotechnology
• 04/2024: intern - Jäscke Lab, institute for pharmacy and molecular biotechnology

My interest in cancer biology began during my undergraduate studies, where oncology lectures consistently caught my attention. I am particularly fascinated by oncolytic viruses, as they combine oncology, immunology, and virology in an innovative way by turning something inherently harmful into a therapeutic tool. Additionally, cancer organoids and their potential in personalized medicine, as well as CAR-T cell therapies, strongly interest me. During the master’s program, my goal is to identify a research topic that absolutely fascinates me and to pursue it further in a PhD. I enjoy hands-on research and aim to expand my interests while contributing to work that can have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

siriane.maume (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 05/02/2025 – 30/06/2025: Bachelor’s Thesis research in the Chromatin and Gene Regulation group at Molecular Biology Institute of Barcelona (IBMB-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain. Under supervision of Dr. Guillermo P. Vicent.
• 01/10/2023 – 21/12/2023: Research intern in the Biomedical Research in Melanoma group at the Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain. Under supervision of Dr. Juan Ángel Recio.
• 09/2020: Final year research project on tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) through the Catalunya-La Pedrera Foundation’s program “BATX2LAB”.

The first time I heard about cancer, it shocked me to my core that our own cells could turn against us, like a ticking bomb waiting to cause massive destruction. From then on, my commitment to developing innovative therapies that are accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, was consolidated.
My main long-term goal is to become an impactful cancer researcher with a translational focus. I am particularly interested in the genetic and epigenetic regulation of cancer cells and the complexity of cell interactions and roles in the tumor microenvironment. Through this master’s program, I intend to gain invaluable knowledge in current cancer therapeutic approaches and state of research, and also participate in crucial academia-industry collaborative initiatives to help transfer benchside innovations to bedside applications. I hope to embed myself in the rich research environment localized in Heidelberg, all while collaborating through this program with the DKFZ.

juliana.messegueandres (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 2/2025-8/2025: Research internship and Bachelor thesis at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Tumor Research (IMT), Research group Prof. Dr. Alexander Brehm, Philipps University Marburg, Germany
• 5/2025-6/2025: Student Assistant for the internship “Biochemistry/Molecular Biology for students of Human Medicine and Dentistry”, Philipps University Marburg, Germany
• 1/2020: Internship at Merck KGaA-Life Science about novel medical devices, Darmstadt, Germany

An early fascination with the complexity of the human body and how it responds to diseases inspired my current direction of study. Majoring in tumour biology during my undergraduate studies has solidified my interest in cancer research. I am particularly interested in the epigenetic mechanisms that influence cancer development by altering specific cellular or immunological processes.
Throughout this Master’s programme, I hope to broaden my knowledge on organoid models, bioinformatics and get an insight in varying aspects of cancer prevention in different research groups. By learning about the complexity of cancer, my wish is to play a part in improving cancer patient outcomes and their overall quality of life.

antonia.meyer (at) dkfz. de

• 20.10.2022 – 01.10.2025: Working student at the Department of Medical Diagnostics and Central Laboratories, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Germany

• 12.05.2025 – 04.08.2025: Mitacs GRI Research Intern at the Mulligan Lab, Sinclair Cancer Research Institute at Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada – “Targeting the RET kinase as a therapeutic target in human cancer”

• 17.06.2024 – 02.08.2024: Research Intern at the Micro, Nano and Molecular Systems Group, IMSEAM and MPI for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany – “Exploring antibubble-cell interactions and antibubble payload release modulated by acoustic holograms”

• 19.02.2024 – 05.04.2024: Research Intern at the Duarte Campos Lab, ZMBH Universität Heidelberg, Germany – “Optimizing EL222-SNAP expression in E.coli TOP10 cells for optogenetic hydrogel preparation”

• 14.08.2023 – 15.10.2023: Summer Intern at the Centre for Genetic Disorders, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India – “Validating the expression of miRNA biomarkers in blood serum to develop an algorithmic model for early diagnosis of prostate cancer”

I developed my interest in molecular disease mechanisms through multiple research internships during my Bachelor studies. I am particularly fascinated by cancer heterogeneity, which requires understanding both pathological dysregulation and homeostatic states, knowledge I hope to deepen through this Master's program. Specifically, I am intrigued by the interplay between immune responses and the tumour microenvironment, as well as proteomics, which hold translational potential beyond oncology.
Through this program, I aim to strengthen my expertise in in vivo models, high-throughput methods and bioinformatics. Skills which I find are becoming increasingly vital in biomedical sciences. Ultimately, I aspire to pursue a research career in translational science, converting fundamental insights into novel therapeutic strategies for patients.

elisaveta.platonova (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 02/2025-03/2025: Tutor for microbiology practical course at Paris Lodron University Salzburg
• 08/2024-09/2024: Cell process engineering intern at Autolus Therapeutics in London (development of CAR T-cell therapy for cancer and autoimmune diseases)
• 09/2023-08/2025: Surgery assistant at UM Hernienzentrum München
• 09/2020-06/2021: Medical assistant at Hausarztzentrum Gauting

I have always been curious and excited about understanding the underlying mechanisms of human physiology and disease. During my bachelor’s program I was fascinated by the various strategies cancer cells develop to survive and especially by the complex interplay between cancer cells and the immune system. Knowing that these scientific discoveries can actually make a difference in patients’ lives motivates me to deepen my understanding and actively contribute to this dynamic field. Therefore, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to study cancer biology here at DKFZ Heidelberg and to be part of an inspiring community dedicated to understanding the complexity of cancer and improving the prospects for cancer patients. 

carlotta.radloff (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 01/2025 - 06/2025: Internship at Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre- Detection of Cancer mutations using ARMS-PCR and Next Generation Sequencing. 

• 07/2024 – 09/2024: Internship at I&B Seeds Pvt. Ltd.- Purity analysis and pathogen detection in plant samples for farmers, Seed health testing and Double Haploid Production.

Book chapter in Nanotechnology in Wound Healing Innovations, Applications, and Future Perspectives
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9781003605966

• Chapter 11- Polymeric Nanomaterials in Wound Healing and Tissue Remodeling

Science has always been a significant part of my life; however, it was my recent internship experience that truly solidified my interest in the field of Molecular Biology and Cancer Biology in particular. Cancer is an extremely diverse disease and its severity is one of the main reasons for my passion to help improve patient conditions. My keen interests lie in understanding how small genetic alterations can result in the development of Cancer. Looking ahead, I would like to continue my journey in this field through a PhD, and would like to focus on studying genetic mutations and uncovering potential targets for therapy that can contribute to alternative methods of treatment for patients.

parinikaajoy.raj (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 06/2024 – 06/2025: Chancellor’s Summer Research Fellowship on “Deciphering ECM stiffness: An investigation into the influence of Notch and Fibronectin in Osteosarcoma cell (MG63) survival - An in vitro study”, at the Department of Clinical Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences, SRIHER (DU).
• 08/2025 – 09/2025: Research Intern for an SERB Sponsored Project titled "Bio-fabrication of bionic nanofibrous cell sheet and 3D printed scaffold combination for superior periosteum and bone remodelling” at the Faculty of Clinical Research, Biomaterial Laboratory, SIRHER (DU).
• 15/05/2023 – 24/05/2023: Internship at Centre for Ocean and Research, Col. Dr. Jeppiaar Research Park, Sathyabama Institute on the In-vitro propagation of marine faunal cell lines.

As a master’s student at the DKFZ, I am passionate about uncovering the molecular mechanisms of tumor immune evasion and advancing next-generation cancer immunotherapies. My interest in immunotherapy began with my proposal for the 19th Fujio Cup Quiz, where I explored the potential of CAR-T cell engineering to treat autoimmune disorders. This experience sparked a lasting fascination with immune modulation and its therapeutic applications in cancer. Through my previous research in molecular oncology, I have examined how tumor microenvironmental cues shape cellular behaviour and resistance, further reinforcing my drive to pursue immunological approaches to cancer treatment. At DKFZ, I aim to integrate experimental and computational methods to better understand immune-tumor interactions and identify molecular targets for precision therapies. In the long term, I aspire to contribute to the development of personalized immunotherapies that translate fundamental discoveries into tangible clinical benefits.

zainab.rasheedshabbir (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 09/2022-06/2024: Student assistant at the Institute of Virology, University of Wuerzburg
• 10/2024-03/2025: Bachelor’s thesis at Rudolf-Virchow-Center Wuerzburg, group of Prof. Dr. Friedmann Angeli

Cancer remains one of the most urgent frontiers in biomedical science, and nearly everyone is directly or indirectly affected by it. Over recent decades, research has fundamentally transformed our understanding of the disease. Cancer is now recognized not as a single condition, but as a multifaceted and highly complex family of disorders. This dynamic, constantly evolving research landscape coupled with the profound relevance of cancer to everyday life captivates me. I am excited explore this field further and contribute to the scientific community working to fight cancer and improve quality of life.

chiara.reissenweber (at) dkfz. de

• 03/2024 – 06/2025: Research Assistant, Dawn of Bioinformatics Ltd -  Conducted drug and vaccine development projectsfor breast and liver cancer
• 08/2023 – 03/2025: Research Intern, Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Jahangirnagar University - Investigated therapeutic potential of Gracilaria tenuistipitata and green-synthesized nanoparticles in diarrheal and liver fibrosis mice models; contributed to experimental design anddataanalysis for preclinical studies

Computational analysis of miRNA mediated KDR gene regulation and natural VEGFR2 inhibitors from Persicaria hydropiper in hepatocellular carcinoma.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-21944-0

I have always been fascinated by the molecular mechanisms that drive human diseases. While learning about drug development, I became particularly interested in using AI to design therapies that account for tumor heterogeneity and individual patient differences. Exploring how computational tools can guide more precise, personalized treatments really captured my imagination. In the future, I hope to focus on developing precision therapies for hard-to-treat cancers, combining experimental research with AI-driven approaches. Ultimately, I want to contribute to improving patient outcomes and advance the field of precision oncology, continuing my journey with a PhD after my master’s studies.

sunbin.samin (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 09/2025 – present: Working student at the CCU Neuroimmunology and Brain Tumor Immunology (Prof. Platten), Team: Immunogenomics, DKFZ, Germany
• 03/2025 – 06/2025: Voluntary research internship at the CCU Neuroimmunology and Brain Tumor Immunology (Prof. Platten), Team: Immunogenomics, DKFZ, Germany – “Characterization and functional analysis of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte-derived tumor-reactive T cell receptors from a brain metastasis patient”
• 12/2024 – 02/2025: Laboratory assistant at Labor Dr. Froreich, Hamburg, Germany
• 04/2024 – 09/2024: Bachelor’s thesis at the Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (Prof. Müller), Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
• 02/2024 – 03/2024: Marketing intern at Biomol GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
• 03/2023 – 06/2023: Working student at Labor Dr. Fenner und Kollegen, Hamburg, Germany

My strong interest in cancer research stems from both academic curiosity and personal experience. After witnessing the impact of cancer on close relatives, I became highly motivated to pursue a career in cancer biology. Early, I was fascinated by the complex interaction between cancer and the immune system. During my Bachelor’s thesis I explored T cell-based immunotherapy, which strengthened my interest and led me to do a voluntary internship at the DKFZ, where I analyzed the cytotoxic effects of reactive T cells on brain metastasis cells. I am particularly interested in understanding how immune cell function is shaped by the tumor microenvironment to identify mechanisms that can be translated into more effective therapeutic strategies. I am confident that the rigorous training in the Master’s program at the DKFZ will enable me to further develop the skills and expertise necessary to make meaningful contributions to biomedical research.

sara.santo (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 10/2024 – 02/2025: Bachelor’s Thesis at the Section of Translational Research, Thoraxklinik Heidelberg, Germany
• 09/2023 – 02/2024: Internship Semester at the Quality Control Microbiology Lab, Becton Dickinson (BD), Heidelberg, Germany

Throughout my Bachelor’s studies, I developed a strong interest in the molecular processes that govern human health and disease. My Bachelor’s thesis in translational cancer research deepened this fascination with the interface between fundamental laboratory science and clinical application, particularly in areas where reliable biomarkers and effective therapies remain limited. Consequently, I am deeply motivated to further explore these mechanisms, with a specific focus on cancer biology. 
Looking ahead, I aspire to pursue a PhD and contribute to impactful research that advances precision oncology and improves patient outcomes. 

luca.schell (at) dkfz. de

• 03/2025 – 07/2025: Bachelor’s Thesis at Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Homburg (Germany), lab of Prof. Dr. Leticia Prates Roma; Project: Role of uremic toxins and inflammatory cytokines on cell function of vascular smooth muscle cells
• 09/2024: Research internship at Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Homburg (Germany), lab of Prof. Dr. Leticia Prates Roma; Project: Quantifying movement of subcellular H2O2 between compartments
• 06/2024 – 08/2024: Research internship at Leipzig University (Germany), lab of Prof. Dr. Mario Mörl; Project: in vivo enzymatic activity of nucleotidyltransferase
• 01/2024: Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) at the University of Barcelona (Spain), lab of Prof. Dr. Marc Valls; Project: CRISPR-Cas9

I developed my interest in molecular processes within cells through multiple internships across Europe, and during my thesis, I began exploring key cellular functions in the context of disease. I now aim to continue on this biomedical path with a focus on cancer, examining how stress factors influence redox biology and metabolism. To broaden my expertise, I plan to work with in vivo models while also strengthening my bioinformatics skills, an area I consider increasingly essential in modern biology. Ultimately, I want my research to contribute to better treatment opportunities for patients, to improve their survival rates and quality of life. 

antoine.schuessler (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 04/2025 – 08/2025: R&D Intern, Roche Holding AG, Institute of Human Biology, Applied Organoid Technologies, Basel, Switzerland – „Development of advanced lung cancer organoid models to evaluate novel immunotherapy approaches“
• 08/2024 – 04/2025: Laboratory Research Assistant, DKTK Freiburg im Breisgau, Group of Prof. Dr. Dr. Börries’ Group, Germany – „High-throughput drug testing in patient-derived cancer organoids“
• 05/2023 – 01/2024: Laboratory Research Assistant, DKTK Freiburg im Breisgau, Group of Prof. Dr. Dr. Börries’ Group, Germany – „Establishment of an organoid biobank comprising over 70 patient-derived organoids“
• 03/2023 – 04/2023: Research Intern, University Hospital Freiburg, Group of Dr. Ruess – „Investigating the metabolic implications of targeted SHP2 and MEK inhibition in pancreatic cancer“

My scientific interests lie at the intersection of oncology and translational medicine. During my undergraduate studies in Molecular Medicine, I became fascinated by how molecular mechanisms drive disease progression and how this knowledge can be translated into novel therapeutic strategies.
During my Bachelor’s thesis, I focused on high-throughput drug testing using patient-derived organoids, gaining insights into how complex biological models can bridge the gap between fundamental research and clinical application. To build on this foundation, I pursued an internship in R&D at Roche in Basel, working on advanced co-culture organoid models for immunotherapeutic applications using bispecific antibodies. This experience deepened my interest in the interplay between the immune system and cancer and reinforced my aspiration to continue working at the interface of molecular biology, immuno-oncology, and translational research. My goal is to contribute to research that transforms molecular discoveries into effective, patient-centered treatments. 

tamara.sloboda (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 02/2025 – 09/2025:  Internship and Bachelor thesis at the Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Research group of Prof. Dr. Hantschel, Marburg University, Germany
• 05/2025 – 09/2025: Student Assistant in laboratory practicals for students studying Biomedical Science, Marburg University, Germany
• 03/2024 – 04/2024: Research Internship at Biochemical Pharmacological Center, Research group of Prof. Dr. Kristin Rattay, Marburg University, Germany

Since my undergraduate studies, I have always been deeply fascinated by the intricate ways our immune system defends us against foreign pathogens as well as self-derived cancer cells. Inspired by Prof. Dr. Ugur Sahin and Prof. Dr. Özlem Türeci to use the immune system as a tool in the fight against cancer, I am eager to complement my scientific background in infection biology with additional studies in cancer biology. Throughout my time at DKFZ, I seek to expand my knowledge in cancer development, tumor immunology, and bioinformatics. Ultimately, I want to use this broad repertoire of laboratory techniques and areas of research to creatively investigate malignant diseases and translate that knowledge into clinical treatment approaches. My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies that mirror the complex, dynamic, and heterogeneous nature of cancer itself.

maximilian.stolte (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• Postbaccalaureate Research Fellow: National Center for Advancing Translational Science at the National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD USA, June 2024- Jul 2025
• Research fellow, Wenjing Wang Lab, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI USA, Sep 2023- July 2024
• Research fellow Anna Mapp Lab University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI USA, Sep 2024 - July 2024
• Internship: Merck Sterile and Liquids Pilot Plant, Lansdale, PA USA, May 2022 - Aug 2022

SAR Studies around the SULT1A1-Activated Alkylator YC-1 as Cytotoxic Agents against Biliary Tract Cancer Cells

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5c00489

I am interested in translational science and turning academic knowledge into treatments for patients. I am interested in working as a scientist in an early-stage drug discovery role, ideally in the biotechnology industry or a large research institute. I am interested in oncology and rare disease projects, the majority of my current research experience centers on biochemistry, assay development, and high throughput screening. After my master's I plan to pursue a PhD in chemical biology.

marius-dan.vava (at) dkfz. de

LinkedIn profile

• 11.2024—02.2025  Research intern at Harvard SEAS, hosted by Prof. David Weitz
• 07.2024—08.2025  Research intern at Stanford Mechanical Engineering , hosted by the Microfluidics Laboratory and Prof. Juan Santiago

Jiang Q, Zang X, Wang Y, Avaro AS, Huyke DA, Santiago JG. A three-dimensional microfluidic device embedded within a thermal cycler tube for electrokinetic DNA extraction. Lab Chip. 2025 Aug 5;25(16):3962-3970. doi: 10.1039/d4lc01062k.

I am interested in molecular therapeutics, especially protein-based approaches. I value rigorous, open work that others can build upon and ultimately serves patients. During my BSc in biomedical engineering, I specialized in microfluidics and developed high-throughput platforms. At DKFZ, I hope to enhance my capability as a molecular biologist with quantitative perspective, and contribute to meaningful projects that advance both scientific discovery and clinical application. I also aim to identify the specific research area where I can happily build my future career.

yilu.wang (at) dkfz. de

01/2024 – 06/2024: Research internship at AR Lab, Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India. I explored the role of the AMPK-HIF-1α loop in regulation of survival and metabolism of matrix-deprived triple-negative breast cancer cells.
06/2023 – 07/2023: Summer internship at Zumutor Biologics, Bangalore, India. I learnt and performed molecular biology, cellular biology, and protein purification techniques.
07/2022 – Summer internship at DIA Lab, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), Bangalore, India. I worked on the purification of a recombinant protein from a bacterial expression system.

During my undergraduate studies I was introduced to the concept of translating science into medicine through courses like molecular biology, cancer biology, and immunology. Cancer, as a group of diseases, has always piqued my interest owing to its complexity. My interest in cancer biology further solidified during my internship at IISc. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit self-renewal properties along with chemoresistance and are responsible for the relapse of cancer. Targeting CSCs is thus considered to be a promising therapeutic target. Having worked on the metabolic regulation of TNBCs, I am curious to learn about CSCs and the mechanisms that control cancer progression. I am also interested in exploring the opportunities within immuno-oncology. As a major cancer biology student at DKFZ, I look forward to making a valuable impact in the fight against cancer.

apoorva.bhat (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

08/2022 & 02/2023 – 07/2023: Research internship and bachelor thesis at the research group of Dr. Rolf Müller at the Center of Tumor Biology and Immunology (ZTI) in Marburg
04/2022 – 07/2023: Student Assistant at Philipps-University Marburg; Supervision of biochemical and molecular biological laboratory practicals for medical & biomedical students
07/2019 – 08/2019 & 01/2020 – 02/2020: Internship at BioNTech SE at the research group of Dr. Christiane Stadler; Project: Development of cancer target directed, T-Cell engaging bispecific antibodies

My interest in science began early in school, but it was my apprenticeship at BioNTech SE that truly strengthened my passion for cancer research. I was particularly inspired by the company's innovative approach to linking tumor control with the patient's own immune system. I am looking forward to deepening my understanding of the interactions between cancer formation, progression, and the immune system at the DKFZ. My bachelor thesis then shifted my focus specifically to cancers that primarily affect women, such as breast and ovarian cancer, highlighting the need for more research targeting females, as it has fallen short for many decades. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the research at DKFZ, working towards the goal of "a life without cancer." I believe that the Molecular Biosciences Master's program will be a crucial milestone in my journey, guiding me toward a PhD and enabling me to make meaningful advancements in this vital field of cancer research.

lillimarie.boehling (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

21/2025 – present: Research Assistant at the Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM GmbH, Dr. Marieke Essers), DKFZ Heidelberg, Germany
02/2024 – 09/2024: Research internship and Bachelor thesis at the Centre of Tumor Biology and Immunology, Institute of Molecular Oncology (Prof. Dr. Thorsten Stiewe), Marburg, Germany
04/2023 – 08/2023 and 10/2023 – 02/2024: Student Assistant at internship "Biochemistry/Molecular Biology for students of Human Medicine and Dentistry"
10/2022 – 03/2023 and 10/2023 – 02/2024: Leader of a tutorial "Mathematics for students of Human Biology"

Motivated by the desire to contribute to the continuous fight against cancer, I am eager to understand how genetic mutations can drive the development of cancer. The impact that small alterations in specific genes can have on cellular processes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation is impressive. Looking ahead, I want to delve deeper into genomic research to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention and more personalized cancer treatments. Furthermore, I am interested in the tumor microenvironment and its potential for influencing therapeutic outcomes. By exploring the interactions between cancer cells and the surrounding tissue, I aim to contribute to the development of innovative treatments that target not just the tumor itself, but its supportive environment.

julia.cremer (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

10/2024 – present: Research assistant at center for clinical studies, Thoraxklinik, Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany
06/2024 – 08/2024 Internship at Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Research group Prof. Weekes (HCMV and MPXV), Cambridge, UK
08/2023 – 01/2024 & 03/2024 – 05/2024 Bachelor's thesis and research assistant at the Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, Research group Prof. Marschall (HCMV and antiviral compounds), University Hospital Erlangen, Germany
11/2022 – 01/2024 Student assistant at the HLA/Immunogenetics Laboratory (Organ donation diagnostics for Eurotransplant and DSO), University Hospital Erlangen, Germany
08/2020 – 10/2020 Student assistant at Bavarian Nordic GmbH (Regulatory Affairs Department), Martinsried, Germany

Tillmanns J*, Kicuntod J*, Ehring A*, Elbasani E, Borst EM, Obergfäll D, Müller R, Hahn F, Marschall M. Establishment of a Luciferase-Based Reporter System to Study Aspects of Human Cytomegalovirus Infection, Replication Characteristics, and Antiviral Drug Efficacy. Pathogens. 2024 Jul 31;13(8):645. doi: 10.3390/pathogens13080645. PMID: 39204245; PMCID: PMC11356942. *equal contribution

The complexity of molecular biological processes has always fascinated me and was my main reason for pursuing medical research as a career. I'm especially interested in how changes in essential cellular mechanisms can lead to formation of cancer with its unique characteristics. My goal is to contribute to research in this area that may lead to the development of innovative therapies or diagnostics. So far, I have done a lot of work with viruses, and I plan to apply this knowledge when working on tumor-associated viruses or oncolytic viruses. However, I want to gain insight into as many aspects of cancer research as possible during my Master's studies and I'm always open to other interesting or exciting aspects of cancer biology.

antonia.ehring (at) dkfz.de

(2023.05-2023.11) The University of Edinburgh, Member of iGEM 2023 team: Genetically engineering cyanobacteria (Synechocystis spp) for increased extracellular electron transfer and nutrient production with potential application in biophotovoltaic pollinator-friendly solar panels. In a team of 12 students, I led the biosafety sub-project which involved building a nuclease-based genetic kill switch in cyanobacteria to control the spread of GMOs in the environment.
(05.2022-07.2022) The University of Edinburgh, Research Intern at Philip Research Group: Working on the intracellular cyclic nucleotide signalling important during transmission stages of Plasmodium parasite. I successfully cloned and expressed predicted cyclic nucleotide-binding domains of the EPAC protein in E. coli. These proteins were later used for further functional analyses to determine their affinity to cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP.
(06.2018-07.2018) Intern at Northway Biotechpharma, Vilnius, Lithuania: While still in high school, I did an internship in a biotechnological company, where I was introduced to biotechnological processes, including harvesting, protein purification at different scales using various chromatography techniques, and refolding process development. I got acquainted with cloning and sequencing of targeted genes and genetic engineering methods for development of expression systems in various cell cultures.

During my BSc degree in Biological Sciences (Immunology) at the University of Edinburgh, I became increasingly fascinated by the complexity of the immune system and its crucial role in a variety of diseases, including cancer. My particular interests lie at the interplay of the immune response and cancer development and treatment. Specifically, I am interested how tumours avoid/suppress immune responses and how current immunotherapies (e.g., CAR-T cells, checkpoint inhibitors) can be improved and novel immunotherapies developed for better cancer treatment. My other interests include infection biology, especially malaria parasite trasmission and adhesion to human cells. I am motivated to pursue a career in research with a focus on cancer immunology and contribute towards tackling some of the outstanding challenges. This aligns well with my general academic goal of contributing towards improving people's health and reducing suffering.

edvardas.eigminas (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

03/2024 – 09/2024: Research Internship and Bachelor's Thesis (Saur Lab), Rechts der Isar Hospital of the Technical University of Munich at TranslaTUM's Institute of Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Germany
07/2022 – 03/2024: Academic Tutor, LMU Munich, Germany
04/2022 – 07/2023: Student Research Assistant (Osman Lab), LMU Munich, Germany
11/2019 – 03/2022: Junior Software Engineer, Telespazio Germany GmbH, Darmstadt, Germany

I am a former computer science graduate who found his true passion in biology and graduated from LMU with a Bachelor's degree in biology as the top performing student. I did my Bachelor's thesis at TranslaTUM emplyoying the Perturb-seq method to unveil transcriptional networks controlling the immunosuppressive secretome of pancreatic cancer subtypes. Personally, I find it very interesting to understand chemotherapy-resistant and immune-evading cancer cells and to find new methods to attack and destroy them.
Ironically, I recently have been diagnosed with cancer myself (Hodgkin's lymphoma) and am now fighting this terrible but fascinating disease as both a researcher and a patient, hoping to win on both fronts.

nima.esmaeelpour (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

08/2023 - 09/2024: Student Aid (HiWi) and Bachelor's Thesis at the University Hospital Essen, Research Group Cell Plasticity and Metastasis, Prof. Dr. Barbara Grüner, Essen, Germany

During my Bachelor's Thesis, I developed a strong passion for cancer research, with a particular focus on metastasis - the leading cause of cancer-related death. My experience working in a lab specialized in cell plasticity and metastasis allowed me to delve into the underlying mechanisms driving this process, further deepening my fascination with how cancer cells spread, adapt, and resist treatment.
As a Cancer Biology student at the DKFZ, I am eager to not only expand my knowledge of metastasis, but also to broaden my knowledge of cancer biology in all its facets. I am particularly driven to explore novel therapeutic strategies for advanced-stage cancers, where treatment options are limited, and patient outcomes remain poor. My ultimate goal is to contribute to innovative, targeted approaches that effectively target metastatic disease, to improve both survival rates and the quality of life for patients with advanced cancers.

paula.feldt (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

07/2024 - 09/2024: CICERONE program participant at the Spanish National Cardiovascular Research Centre (CNIC). Hematovascular Pathophysiology Group, PI Dr. José Javier Fuster. Conducted research on the interplay between clonal hematopoiesis and the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
04/2024 - 06/2024: Research internship and bachelor's thesis at the Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO). Gene Expression and Cancer Group, PI Dr.Prof. Joan Seoane.
09/2023: Internship at the Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (CSIC). Neurobiology Group, PI Dr. Ramon Trullàs. Conducted research on uncovering the role of mitochondrial DNA quality control in neurodegeneration.
04/2023 - 07/2023: Internship at the University of Helsinki. Metabolism and Signaling Group, PI Dr. Jaakko Mattila. Conducted research on the role of Nuclear Transcription Factor Y Subunit Alpha (NF-YA) in tissue size regulation and cell apoptosis in Drosophila melanogaster.
10/2022 - 03/2023: Student assistant at Pompeu Fabra University. Supported the preparation of laboratory practicals for biomedical bachelor students as a lab technician.

At sixteen, I came across the number of 1 in 10 to the 2,685,000 power, that is believed to represent the odds of you existing today. Then, throughout my bachelor's, I realized how incredibly intertwined the molecular mechanisms that sustain life are and how even minor dysregulations can lead to diseases like cancer, one of the most complex, prevalent, and intellectually challenging diseases of our modern society. So I can't help but wonder: What are the odds of being both alive and healthy like I am? This thought inspired me to pursue a career in cancer research for the improvement of scientific knowledge and, most importantly, people's lives. Now, as a master's student at DKFZ, my goals are to deepen my understanding of translational cancer research and explore some personal interests like intratumoral and tumor microenvironment heterogeneity, a key factor in drug resistance, and the use of the immune system in emerging immunotherapies.

paula.garciapacheco (at) dkfz.de

LinkedIn profile

01/06/2024 - 30/06/2024: Research training at the Cancer Biology lab in the School of Medical Science & Technology (SMST) of Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT KGP), under the guidance of Prof. Mahitosh Mandal, to observe and learn techniques used in Cancer research
19/06/2023 - 28/07/2023: Summer research intern at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), USA, under the guidance of Prof. Vivek A. Kumar, to assist with the biomedical imaging and data analysis section of a then-ongoing project on "Evaluation of hydrogel scaffolds for myocardial regeneration"
01/2023 - 12/2023: Participated in a project under the guidance of Prof. Nandan Kumar Jana (Heritage Institute of Technology, Kolkata, India) on In silico drug designing against Breast Cancer
13/11/2021 - 04/07/2022: Undergraduate research trainee at Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute (SGCCRI), Thakurpukur, Kolkata, India, under the guidance of Prof. Somsubhra Nath, to learn basic Cancer research laboratory techniques and assist with a project on "Exploring the correlation between CDC20 and UBCH10 in primary oral malignancies"

A. Gupta, S. Patel, A. Roy and V. Kumar, "Evaluation of Hydrogel Scaffolds for Myocardial Regeneration." Book of Abstracts, 2023 URI Summer Research and Innovation Symposium, pp. 17, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, USA, July 26-27, 2023.

Even though I am yet to learn more about research on Cancer, just because it is an ever-evolving and continuously updating field of research, I know I want to discover more about the role of the environment (the tumour microenvironment or TME) in which the cancerous tumours exist, in assisting the growth, proliferation and thriving of these tumours. Not only the characteristics or changes in nature of the tumour cells are of importance, but also the environment which also plays a critical role, often adapting under the influence of cancer cells to support further development. It's fascinating how the TME can be 'reprogrammed' to allow this disease to thrive. I would like to learn more about these TMEs and hope to discover new and efficient ways to control it, so that it could resist the growth of tumours.

anushri.gupta (at) dkfz.de

EDC: Extrachromosomal DNA in Cancer with Dr. Büşra Yağabasan and Dr. Alexandros Drainas.
06/2022-08/2022: Alkermes, Waltham MA. Protein therapeutics group in the Drug Discovery department.
03/2021 – 06/2022: Imaizumi lab, University of Washington Biology Department: Exploring seasonal flowering mechanisms at the molecular level.

Growing up I have always gravitated towards science because of its definitive answers. My curiosity drives me towards understanding life at the molecular level, where so much is still unknown. Modern cancer research requires the most cutting-edge techniques to understand the complex biology behind it. Doing cancer research, therefore, offers a deep dive into many molecular mechanisms in life while simultaneously being applicable to the big picture of improving human health. This is why I am excited and grateful to be here at DFKZ, and to be able to take part in cancer research in the future. I aim to help gain insights on the genomic alterations that occur as cancer progresses and evolves, and to leverage these insights to help combat treatment resistance in patients.

oskar.haeberlein (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

11/2024 – present: Student assistant (HiWi) at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and the Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM GmbH), Department of Experimental Haematology (Dr. Michael Milsom).
08/2023 & 02/2024 – 08/2024: Research internship and Bachelor thesis at the research group of Prof. Dr. Uta-Maria Bauer at the Institute of Microbiology and Tumor Research at the Philipps-University Marburg.
11/2023 & 04/2024 – 06/2024: Student assistant at the Philipps University of Marburg; supervision and guidance of lessons and laboratory practicals in the subjects of histology, epigenetics and biochemistry for medical and biomedical students.

My interest in human biology, and particularly the development of diseases driven by molecular dysregulated mechanisms in our cells, started already in school. During my undergraduate studies, this interest deepened further, especially in the field of cancer research. I want to broaden my knowledge of how genetic and epigenetic alterations contribute to cancer development, maintenance, and resistance to therapies. In addition, I am interested in the communication network with the surrounding cell types as well as the immune system, driven by the microenvironment. By enrolling in the DKFZ Master's program, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from scientists from all over the world, to gain inside into current methods for investigating these questions, and to contribute to the development of new strategies to limit or even cure cancer in the future.

victoria.honekamp (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

02/2024 - 04/2024 Laboratory Technician at "Grupo DIAGNOSTI-K" Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories, Puerto Vallarta, México. In charge of operation of hematology and immunology equipment and handling of patient samples for testing (clotting times, blood group, RH factor, erythrocyte sedimentation, febrile reactions, HIV, rapid plasma reagin).
03/2023 - 06/2023 Research Intern at "Centro del Agua para América Latina y el Caribe" ITESM, Monterrey, México, under direct supervision of Dr. Reyna Berenice González González and Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Nasir Iqbal. Literature review and writing about Biomass-derived carbon dots as sustainable nanomaterials for advanced biomedical applications.

If you want to live an interesting life you need to challenge yourself. When I decided to pursue a career that focuses on deciphering Cancer I knew it would be a heavy load but felt thrilled about engaging in it, and contributing to the scientific community that perseveres in the battle against this perplexing disease. During my time in DKFZ I plan to deepen my knowledge in the convergence of Stem Cell (SC) technology and Cancer, specifically how SC signaling mechanisms for maintenance and differentiation can be reflected in tumorigenesis, and how these models can be applied to design new therapeutic targets. Also would like to embark on the development of treatments that use SCs like a donor source for transplantation, as has been done to restore immune-surveillance and rescue the hematopoietic system in patients with Leukemia.

laurapaola.joyaharrison (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

01/2024-04/2024: Bachelor's thesis at the Department of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, India. Investigated the effect of the uptake of synthetic particles on the migratory capacities of cells of a murine macrophage cell line.
08/2023-12/2023: School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Worked on characterizing the molecular mechanism underlying the anti-proliferative role of N-WASP in squamous cell carcinoma.
06/2023-07/2023: Department of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, India. Worked on investigating phenotypic plasticity in helper T-cells using transcriptomic analysis techniques.
11/2022-04/2023: Department of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, India. Worked on understanding the changes in functional capacities of innate immune cells upon interaction with non-stimulatory particles using RT-PCR
08/2022-10/2022: iGEM IISc, India. Member of the biology group of the undergraduate iGEM team of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Attempted to genetically engineer Pseudomonas putida to degrade halocarbons using different cloning strategies.
05/2022-07/2022: Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, India. Worked on the biochemical characterization of a homolog of a yeast inositol pyrophosphatase from an early land plant species and performed its phylogenetic reconstruction with a focus on the plant kingdom.

I am fascinated by the molecular networks and signalling pathways involved in the maintenance of normal cellular physiology. I am further excited by the fact that these processes are affected by influences from the microenvironment of a cell and in turn influence its microenvironment. I find cancer an exciting model system to understand the molecular mechanisms governing physiological processes since these processes go awry in cancer. Since cancer cells interact with other cells of the human body and influence the physiology of these cells, I find it an exciting model system to understand what intercellular interactions are essential for homeostasis. Thus, I aspire to understand homeostatic processes in humans using cancer as a model system.

soham.karandikar (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

none relevant to my field of studies

I am passionately interested in tumour immunology research, with a strong fascination for learning more about (viral) immunotherapy and gene therapy systems. The potential of this field to revolutionise cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes drives my commitment to learning and contributing. My goal is to deepen my laboratory work expertise, build a solid foundation in techniques essential for cutting-edge research, and strengthen my bioinformatics skills. By combining practical lab experience with computational knowledge, I wish to explore new avenues for cancer diagnostics and therapeutic interventions. Ultimately, I aspire to pursue doctoral research on enhancing medical diagnostics and therapies, contributing to new developments in personalised and precision medicine. I am eager to collaborate and engage in research that expands our understanding of the field, focusing on advancing oncology in ways that directly benefit patient care and treatment.

sofia.kasapidou (at) dkfz.de
LinkedIn profile

07/2024 - 9/2024: Research internship in the laboratory of Prof. Morimoto at Northwestern University, supported by the DAAD "RISE weltweit program". Worked on developing a new C. elegans strain using CRISPR to identify protein-chaperone interactions in vivo in the context of proteostasis and aging, Chicago Area, USA
12/2023 – 05/2024: Bachelor's thesis work in the tumor immunology laboratory (LTI) of the LIFE Center of the LMU clinic, Munich, Germany
08/2022 – 12/2023: Intern and working student at Merck Sharp & Dohme GmbH (MSD) Germany in the global clinical trial operations (GCTO) department. Supported local study teams in conducting phase II and III clinical trials, Munich, Germany

My interest in cancer biology developed during my bachelor's program, where I was fascinated by its complexity, its importance in global health, and its interdisciplinary connections. I am particularly interested in personalized medicine, immunotherapy, and the role of genomics and proteomics in understanding cancer mechanisms. As a cancer biology student, I hope to expand my understanding of these areas as well as other relevant disciplines. I also look forward to gaining extensive training in research design and methodology, ultimately preparing me for a future career in science. Most importantly, I am very excited to join the DKFZ community and learn from leading experts in the field of cancer research.