PhD student - Proteomics (m/f/d)

“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.Starting in October 2025, the Division \“Systems Biology of Signal Transduction\“ is seeking a

Graduate Student in Proteomics and BMP Signal Transduction

Reference number: 2025-0213

The Division \“Systems Biology of Signal Transduction\“ headed by Prof. Dr. Ursula Klingmüller integrates advanced experimental methods with mechanistic mathematical modeling to decipher how cells respond to signals in health and disease. Understanding the fine-tuned regulation of signaling pathways is essential to uncovering disease mechanisms and identifying novel therapeutic targets, particularly in cancer and chronic liver disease.

As part of the DFG-funded FerrOs consortium, we aim to unravel the complex, organism-wide regulation of systemic iron homeostasis and its effects on bone health, using a systems biology approach. In this interdisciplinary effort, we combine mass spectrometry-based proteomics with dynamic pathway modeling to define the role of BMP signaling and iron-regulatory mechanisms in both physiological and pathological contexts.

• Investigate BMP receptor complex composition and iron-induced signal transduction in hepatocytes and hepatocellular carcinoma cells
• Develop and apply quantitative mass spectrometry methods (global and targeted) for plasma, cell, and tissue samples to map iron-regulatory pathways
• Integrate proteomics datasets with mechanistic mathematical models to explore regulatory dynamics of hepcidin expression and systemic iron control
• Utilize phosphoproteomics workflows to uncover iron-dependent changes in signaling networks, with a focus on liver-bone communication
• Collaborate closely with computational biologists, modelers, and clinicians to advance integrative models and identify sex-specific disease mechanisms
• Contribute to publications and presentation of the results at scientific meetings

• Master\’s degree in biochemistry, systems biology or a related life science discipline
• Expertise in cell biology, signal transduction and iron metabolism (knowledge in hepatology is of advantage)
• Expertise in mass spectrometry-based proteomics (including sample preparation, acquisition, and data interpretation)
• Experience in handling complex omics datasets, and in applying statistical and computational tools (R, Python) for data analysis are of advantage
• Familiarity with mathematical modeling in systems biology and pathway-level data integration is advantageous
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills with proficiency in English and motivation to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment
• A strong scientific track record demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals

• 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