Junior Research Group Leader "Spatial Tumor Heterogeneity"

The German Cancer Research Center is the largest biomedical research institution in Germany. With more than 3,000 employees, we operate an extensive scientific program in the field of cancer research. Together with university partners at seven renowned partner sites, the DKFZ has established the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK). The DKTK promotes interdisciplinary research approaches and innovative preclinical studies, which will contribute to improved prevention, diagnosis and faster implementation of personalized therapies for cancer patients.

For the DKTK partner site Essen / Düsseldorf we are seeking a Junior Research Group Leader "Spatial Tumor Heterogeneity" (Ref-No. 2023-0377).

Job description:

We seek to appoint a junior research group leader with a background in cancer biology and related fields (e. g. pathology, immunology) starting 01.01.2024. The research field should focus on the analysis of spatial and longitudinal heterogeneity of gastrointestinal tumor ecosystems, preferably pancreatobiliary cancers, at single cell resolution. Experience in developing and/or employing comprehensive tumor models to address complex tumor-host interactions is expected. Expertise in the integration of multi-omics datasets (e. g. RNA / DNA sequencing datasets with tissue imaging data) with phenotypic endpoints (tumor differentiation, therapy response patterns, etc.) is warranted. Specific experience in leveraging state-of-the-art imaging approaches (e. g. ultrahigh multiplex imaging, spatial transcriptomics) is welcome that may also enhance reverse translation approaches.

The research field should also match with the profile of the DKTK partner site Essen / Düsseldorf, with a particular focus on three interconnected main research topics:

• Plasticity of cellular phenotypes
• Immune regulation in the tumor microenvironment - contributing to both tumor heterogeneity and therapy resistance
• Preclinical drug discovery for clinical application

Thus, mechanistic and patient-centered research to inform and conceptualize proof-of-concept clinical trials and perform accompanying translational research including reverse translational approaches is strongly encouraged. Competitive applicants should have an exceptional track record of accomplishment, with evident future potential and commitment to translational cancer research. The group is thought to be situated in a preclinical-translational area and expected to co-operate with clinician scientists and/or companies focusing on clinical trial development and reverse translation.

The DKFZ and the DKTK partner site Essen / Düsseldorf provide access to state-of-the-art core facilities. Translational research activities are supported by access to well characterized patient cohorts, high quality tumor tissue banks and excellent clinical research facilities. The DKTK junior research group leader will be employed at the DKFZ Heidelberg and located with the research group at the Medical Faculty of the University of Duisburg-Essen at the University Hospital Essen.

Your profile:

Candidates must hold a M.Sc. as well as Ph.D. degree in pathology, immunology, molecular biology or related fields, preferentially with postdoctoral experience and have a publication record that is internationally competitive for their stage of the career. The successful candidate is expected to acquire competitive national or international third-party research funding. Applications of medical scientists as well as clinician scientists are welcome.

To apply:

Please submit a CV, list of publications, two letters of recommendation, and a research synopsis that both summarizes current/past research accomplishments and outlines your future research plans via our online application portal.

We offer:

• Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
• Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of mobile work and part-time work
• Family-friendly working environment, e.g. parent-child room, advisory services caring for elderly relatives
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted offers for your personal development to further develop your talents
• Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being

The position is limited to 5 years. The position can in principle be part-time.

Important notice: The DKFZ is subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). As a consequence, only persons who present proof of immunity against measles may work at the DKFZ.

The DKFZ is committed to increase the proportion of women in all areas and positions in which women are underrepresented. Qualified female applicants are therefore particularly encouraged to apply. Among candidates of equal aptitude and qualifications, a person with disabilities will be given preference.

To apply for a position please use our online application portal (www.dkfz.de). We ask for your understanding that we cannot return application documents that are sent to us by post and that we do not accept applications submitted via email.