PhD Student for Machine Learning in Oncology

„Research 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 – whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.

Together with university partners at seven renowned partner sites, we have established the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK).

For the Research Group “Machine Learning in Oncology ” (headed by Prof. Dr. Florian Buettner) at theDKTK partner site Frankfurt/Mainz and the Goethe University Frankfurt, we are seeking for the next possible date a

PhD Student for Machine Learning in Oncology

Reference number: 2025-0004

The Buettner lab () works on the intersection of machine learning and oncology and as such is actively pursuing original research in both areas. Your PhD research at the intersection of machine learning, genomics and oncology will explore how machine learning solutions can be used to accelerate progress in personalized oncology.

Your Tasks:

Join us on an exciting new project aimed at understanding and modulating the tumor microenvironment (TME) in colorectal and pancreatic cancer via cutting-edge mRNA technology. Your PhD will focus on building and applying inherently interpretable deep probabilistic machine learning models for multimodal data integration. In collaboration with experimental and clinical partners from Mainz and Heidelberg, you will use these AI models to guide mRNA technology for modulating the TME, thereby helping to broaden the scope of mRNA technologies beyond its well-established application as vaccination. Through iterative cycles of data integration, hypothesis generation, and wet-lab feedback, you will help reveal key pathways that modulate therapy resistance and drive personalized immunological interventions.

Your Profile:

We are looking for a candidate with a background in computer science, statistics, bioinformatics or a related field (e.g. master’s degree in mathematics, physics, computer/ date science, computational biology or related). A good knowledge of machine learning methods and statistics is essential, as is an interest in biomedical applications and cancer research; familiarity with probabilistic modeling and Bayesian methods is highly desirable. Good knowledge of programming/ scripting languages (e.g. R or Python, knowledge of both is a plus) and best practices in software development as well as experience with Linux environments are required.
Experience with bioinformatics algorithms and applications is a plus.
The candidate will closely interact with other researchers and clinicians, therefore good English communication skills are also required.

We Offer:

• Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
• Access to international research networks
• Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of mobile work and part-time work
• Family-friendly working environment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
• Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being

Contact:
Prof. Dr. Florian Buettner
Phone:+49 173 4613687

The position is initially limited to 3 years.

Are you interested?

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

Apply now

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.

Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum | Im Neuenheimer Feld 280 | 69120 Heidelberg |

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