Unlocking functional insights to accelerate precision therapies for children with cancer!
At St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (St. Anna CCRI), innovative disease models play a critical role in translating molecular discoveries into effective treatments. To further strengthen our capabilities in pediatric cancer modeling and functional genomics, we are seeking an outstanding Principal Investigator in Zebrafish Models 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 develop and lead a highly innovative zebrafish research program with a strong translational focus, bridging unmet clinical needs in pediatric oncology with functional insights derived from zebrafish models. Your work will directly contribute to accelerating therapeutic innovation and improving outcomes for young patients.
A central objective of this position is to expand and advance our established zebrafish-based xenograft and drug-screening approaches. This work builds on an exceptional foundation: a well-established zebrafish facility with a highly experienced core unit team, and the ZANDR drug-screening platform.
Key responsibilities
- Lead a zebrafish research program for pediatric cancer: Build and develop an innovative program focused on functional disease modeling and translational applications.
- Operate an institutional zebrafish platform: Scientifically contribute to and strategically shape an established zebrafish and drug‑screening core unit infrastructure.
- Integrate functional modeling into translational pipelines: Implement zebrafish workflows tightly linked to St. Anna CCRI’s precision oncology program, the biobank, and translational research pipelines.
- Drive ambitious, translational research: Design and execute rigorous, reproducible research projects with clear relevance to pediatric cancer biology and therapy.
- Build and lead a multidisciplinary team: Recruit, train, mentor, and supervise scientific and technical staff while ensuring high operational and quality standards.
- Ensure visibility, collaboration and sustainability: Secure competitive third‑party funding, publish impactful research, and represent St. Anna CCRI in international research networks and consortia.
Required Qualifications
- PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent degree in biomedical sciences or a related field.
- Postdoctoral research experience, with a proven track record in developing cell‑based therapies or leading immuno‑oncology research programs.
- Proven expertise in advanced zebrafish technologies, including:
- high‑throughput functional assays
- automated or high‑resolution imaging
- CRISPR/Cas genome editing
- xenotransplantation and patient‑derived in vivo models
- Experience in managing a research platform or core unit is a strong asset.
- Demonstrated success in securing competitive funding, leading independent research programs, and publishing in high‑impact journals.
- Strong leadership and mentoring skills with the ability to build and guide a multidisciplinary team.
- Strategic, collaborative mindset with a clear motivation to drive translational research aligned with St. Anna CCRI’s precision oncology mission.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively across scientific, clinical, and technical teams.
- Ability to thrive in an international and diverse research environment; fluency in English is required.
Our offer
- Internal funding & strong institutional commitment: Competitive core budget and comprehensive start-up resources including dedicated laboratory space, access to core equipment, and support in building and scaling your independent research team.
- Access to cutting‑edge research infrastructure: State‑of‑the‑art platforms in genomics, imaging, proteomics, high‑throughput screening, and advanced in vivo model systems integrated across the institute.
- Embedded collaborative ecosystem: Close interaction with clinicians, precision oncology initiatives, the biobank, and interdisciplinary research groups within a highly translational environment.
- Professional grant support: Institutional assistance with proposal development and professional grant management.
- Attractive employment conditions, culture & location: Flexible working arrangements, tailored onboarding support for international researchers, and a diverse, mission‑driven culture, based in Vienna, offering outstanding quality of life and a strong biomedical ecosystem.
- Compensation: The minimum annual gross salary for this position is € 78.000.- (all in), with the possibility of higher compensation depending on qualifications and experience.
Contract terms: Appointment terms will be aligned with the candidate’s career stage: Starting Principal Investigators will be offered a 5‑year appointment with the possibility of a further 4‑year extension following positive evaluation, while Senior Principal Investigators may be appointed on a rolling tenure basis with regular evaluations every 5 years, reflecting the institute’s long‑term commitment to scientific leadership.
Who we are
One of Europe's leading institutions in the field of pediatric oncology, St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute (St. Anna CCRI) investigates the biological foundations of cancer in children and adolescents. For almost 40 years, our multidisciplinary teams have been committed to developing innovative diagnostic approaches and personalized treatments aimed at further improving young patients’ chances of cure. In close collaboration with the St. Anna Children’s Hospital and both national and international partners, we combine scientific excellence with clinical relevance. We stand for responsible research, transparency, and sustainable knowledge building. As an employer, we offer a state-of-the-art research environment, opportunities for professional development, as well as a workplace culture that embraces diversity and appreciation. Work where it really matters and contribute to science that makes a difference.
St. Anna CCRI is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to providing a work environment of mutual respect to everyone without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.
Find more information here: https://ccri.at/.
Your application
We are looking forward to your application! The application deadline ends on 16.08.2026.
Please submit the following documents:
• Curriculum Vitae (including full publication list)
• List of up to five most important publications with a short comment explaining the relevance of the paper and your contribution
• Funding track record
• Names and contact details of at least three references
• Synopsis of your research interests and planned research program including how you and St. Anna CCRI could mutually benefit from each other
In case of questions please contact us at [email protected].
Your recruiting process
Our recruitment process is designed to ensure a fair, transparent, and rigorous evaluation. It includes the following steps:
- Initial screening and pre‑selection: All applications are reviewed and assessed based on predefined core criteria relevant to the position.
- Virtual interviews with the Scientific Directors: Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in two separate virtual one‑on‑one interviews – one with each Scientific Director of St. Anna CCRI.
- On‑site hearing (12 - 14 September 2026): The highest‑ranked candidates are invited to an on‑site hearing at St. Anna CCRI.
- Offer & final negotiations: Following the hearing, negotiations are conducted with the top‑ranked candidate, and the final appointment decision is made based on the overall evaluation and mutual agreement.
