Molecular determinants of the cellular radiation response and their potential for response modulation.

Radiotherapy belongs to the three main therapy options for malignant tumours. To improve therapeutic gain of radiotherapy, researchers aim to develop effective strategies for a biology-based optimization of treatment protocols combining ionizing radiation and targeted drug therapy. Both the realisation of these efforts and the successful translation of novel basic insights into clinical application require scientists and clinical oncologists with a strong background in radiation sciences. Our RTG helps to meet these needs by providing comprehensive multidisciplinary training for MD, MD/PhD, and PhD graduates in basic, translational, and clinical research aspects in radiation sciences. The research programme aims to achieve a better mechanistic understanding of key molecules that determine the cellular response to ionizing radiation and thus radiation sensitivity with the goal of providing a scientific basis for effective response modulation. The activities of the RTG will ensure long-term progress in this important research area that is already particularly strong at the UDE and has been further strengthened recently by the participation in the BMBF-funded "German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research" and by the completion of the West German Proton Center.

Excellent scientific projects covering cutting-edge topics in radiation biology and experimental radiation oncology form the basis of a multidisciplinary education in the field. Project-oriented laboratory training is complemented with training in general and specific methods of radiation biology and related fields, and with lectures in radiation oncology and radiology, radiation biology, molecular, cellular, and tumor biology, and cell signaling. An extensive visiting researcher programme, regular seminars, and self-organised courses promote in-depth knowledge in key aspects of radiation sciences, and in project presentation, project development, and scientific discussion skills. Additional courses convey essential information in bio-ethics, good scientific practice, and enhance other important soft skills useful for a scientific career. To advance networking and mobility, the graduates are encouraged to participate in national and international meetings and to arrange internships with other groups of the RTG and prominent laboratories abroad. Each graduate is regularly supervised by two mentors and a thesis committee monitors the student’s progress and advises on research strategies and career perspectives. The central goal of the RTG is to educate the graduates to become independent scientists that are optimally prepared for a future scientific career in the areas of radiation biology/radiation oncology and biomedical sciences.

PLEASE NOTE: This BIOME core cooperates closely with the RTG 2762 on Therapeutic Radiation in Cancer.

RTG 2762 Web Site

Coordinators: