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鈥淩esearch for a life without cancer" is our mission at the German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts 鈥� whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.

Head of an independent Junior Research Group with Tenure Option at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)

Reference number: 2025-0132

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Independent Junior Research Group

The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) is Germany's largest biomedical research institute and a leading center for cancer research. With over 3,400 employees, five research focus areas, and a wide network of regional locations, the DKFZ has a long history of groundbreaking discoveries in all fields of cancer biology and across biosciences. ().

We are looking for a creative, ambitious, and collaborative early career scientist to establish an independent, tenure-track junior faculty group () to pursue cutting-edge questions in any of our research topics: Cell and Tumor Biology, Functional and Structural Genomics, Cancer Risk Factors and Prevention, Immunology, Infection & Cancer and Imaging and Radiology. Cross-cutting programs focused single cell or disruptive biotechnologies, cancer prevention, digital oncology, disease-specific focus groups, translation are also welcomed. A successful applicant will have an outstanding postdoctoral track record and strong background in basic tumor biology and/or preclinical cancer research.

The DKFZ and the greater Heidelberg biomedical campus offer an outstanding, dynamic and supportive research landscape with cutting-edge technology platforms, state-of-the-art scientific core facilities (), and the academic training programs within the DKFZ Cancer Research Academy ().

YOUR PROFILE:

• Doctoral degree (e.g. in natural sciences, medical sciences, medicine, computational sciences, epidemiology/public health or another cancer research relevant discipline).
• Excellent postdoctoral research experience (3-6 years).
• Significant international research experience (typically >3 years)
• Outstanding scientific achievements, demonstrated by prior publication record and professional accomplishments.
• Strong track record in management and coordination of interdisciplinary research projects
• History of ambitious acquisition of third-party funding
• Independent, self-reliant and responsible history building, leading, mentoring, and managing a diverse and interdisciplinary research team leader
• Driven to initiate collaborations and actively participate in and contribute to activities of the surrounding research community
• Verbal and written English language fluency and ability to work in an international research environment

Applicants must provide a CV, a list of publications, a 5-page research synopsis of current/past research accomplishments and outlines the candidate's research program for the next 6 years, as well as contact information for their current supervisor and between 2-4 international, senior, high-profile scientists with no conflicts of interest who are willing to provide letters of support.

YOU CAN LOOK FORWARD TO:

• Attractive core funding for six years
• Tenure-option to bid for a permanent position as division head at the DKFZ
• A highly supportive research environment at the DKFZ and the wider scientific community including faculty at Heidelberg University, EMBL and local Max-Planck Institutes as well as opportunities for national and international networking at the highest level
• A welcoming and supportive international group of highly collaborative and aspirational colleagues that will help you to achieve your scientific and career goals
• Administrative support for extramural grant application (e.g. ERC)

Earliest Possible Start Date: earliest possible, but flexible Contact:
Dr. Katja Engelmann
Telefon: +49 6221 42-2165

The position is limited to 6 years and includes a tenure option to bid for a permanent position as division head at the DKFZ.

Application Deadline: 13.06.2025

Are you interested?

Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!


We are convinced that an innovative research and working environment thrives on the diversity of its employees. Therefore, we welcome applications from talented people, regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical ability, religion and age. People with severe disabilities are given preference if they have the same aptitude.

Notice: We are subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Therefore, all our employees must provide proof of immunity against measles.