Job and Study Opportunities

Principal Investigator (f/m/d) – Cellular & Immuno-Therapies

Other job position

Application deadline: 23 Aug 2026

Institute: St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute
Country: Austria
More information: https://ccri.at/working-at-the-ccri/job-openings/?jh=umghkzcdd1lxgkcy6kmfwgtvkwv5ynq

Harnessing the power of the immune system to transform outcomes for children with cancer!

At St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (St. Anna CCRI), we pursue our vision: turning scientific innovation into life‑changing therapies for pediatric cancer patients. To further strengthen our strategic focus on cellular engineering, immune‑based therapies, and translational innovation, we are seeking an outstanding Principal Investigator in Cellular & Immuno-Therapies for Pediatric Cancer. This position is open to candidates at different career stages – from emerging group leaders to experienced Principal Investigators.

In this role, you will establish and lead an internationally competitive research program at the forefront of engineered immune cell therapies and cancer vaccines, driving breakthroughs from discovery through preclinical validation to early clinical translation, within a uniquely integrated bench‑to‑bedside-and-back environment.

Key responsibilities
- Establish and lead an independent research program in cellular or immuno-therapies: Develop innovative approaches in one or more core areas of cellular and immuno-therapy (e.g. engineered T/NK cells, CAR-based strategies, next-generation cell-based approaches, or cancer vaccines), with a clear emphasis on scientific depth and differentiation within a defined focus area.

- Drive translational innovation from discovery to clinic: Advance immune‑engineering concepts through preclinical validation toward early‑phase clinical trials in close alignment with precision oncology initiatives.

- Strengthen clinical and translational interfaces: Collaborate closely with the St. Anna CCRI Clinical Trials Unit, pediatric oncology teams, and GMP facilities at partnering institutions to align research, manufacturing, and regulatory pathways.

- Advance next-generation immune engineering technologies: Lead scientific innovation in immune cell engineering, synthetic biology, or functional immune modulation across the institute.
Build and lead a high‑performing research team: Recruit, mentor, and guide a multidisciplinary team while ensuring scientific excellence, quality, and reproducibility.

- Ensure program visibility and sustainability: Secure competitive third‑party funding, publish high‑impact research, and represent St. Anna CCRI within leading national and international research networks.
Shape European clinical trial strategies in cellular and immuno-therapies: Actively contribute to and engage in study committees of European Clinical Trial Groups to advance the developmen