Postdoctoral Scientist in Radiopharmaceutical Development – Radiochemist/Radiopharmacist in part-time (50%)
Kennziffer: 2025-0171
- Heidelberg
- Part time 19,75 h/week
- Junior Research Group "Translational Radiotheranostics"

„Forschen für ein Leben ohne Krebs“ – das ist unsere Aufgabe am Deutschen Krebsforschungszentrum. Wir erforschen, wie Krebs entsteht, erfassen Krebsrisikofaktoren und suchen nach neuen Strategien, die verhindern, dass Menschen an Krebs erkranken. Wir entwickeln neue Methoden, mit denen Tumore präziser diagnostiziert und Krebspatient:innen erfolgreicher behandelt werden können. Jeder Beitrag zählt – ob in der Forschung, in der Administration oder der Infrastruktur. Das macht unsere tägliche Arbeit so bedeutungsvoll und spannend.
The Junior Research Group "Translational Radiotheranostics" is seeking for the next possible date a
In the 21st century, cancer will remain one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Our mission is to prevent this through the promising combination of personalized radiodiagnostics and targeted radionuclide therapy – known as radiotheranostics.
The ideal candidate will join the independent Junior Research Group “Translational Radiotheranostics” and is expected to pursue a highly innovative project at the frontiers of interdisciplinary cancer research. The position would start at 50%, with a possible extension to 100% later.
Ihre Aufgaben:
- Development of novel small-molecule and peptide-based radioligands for diagnostic, therapeutic, and theranostic applications; this includes rational drug design based on structure-activity relationships, synthetic route development, and comprehensive chemical and radiochemical characterization
- Radiolabeling of compounds with a broad spectrum of medically relevant radionuclides, including alpha-emitters, beta-emitters, and gamma-emitters
- Optimization of labeling protocols and evaluation of complex stability, radiochemical purity, and shelf-life under physiological conditions
- Functional characterization of radiolabeled compounds using a variety of in vitro assays, including receptor binding, internalization kinetics, and cellular retention studies; these experiments will be conducted independently or in close cooperation with team members
- Integration of feedback from biological testing to guide structural modifications and improve efficacy, specificity, and pharmacological profile
- Preparation of high-quality scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, as well as writing and contributing to competitive grant proposals and third-party funding applications
- Co-supervision of graduate students, interns, and early-career researchers; support includes training in synthetic chemistry, lab safety, and experimental planning, as well as mentoring on data interpretation, presentation, and scientific communication
- Regular presentation of research results at internal group meetings, institutional seminars, and national and international scientific conferences
Ihr Profil:
- Applicants should have a master's degree and PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a closely related field. An academic or research focus on drug design, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, coordination/complexation chemistry, or radiopharmaceutical sciences is particularly advantageous.
- Prior experience in handling radionuclides, radiolabeling techniques, and radiopharmaceutical synthesis is highly desirable. However, motivated candidates without prior experience in this field but with a strong interest in radiochemistry are also encouraged to apply.
- Experience with cell culture, biological assays, and small animals is of significant advantage but not a prerequisite.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary and multi-institutional teams is expected. A collaborative mindset, openness to scientific exchange, and a proactive attitude toward project development are essential in this dynamic research environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English or German are required. Candidates should be capable of preparing scientific reports, manuscripts, and presentations, and engaging in professional discussions across disciplines.
Unser Angebot:
- Hervorragende Rahmenbedingungen: modernste state-of-the-art Infrastruktur und Möglichkeit zum internationalen Austausch auf Spitzenniveau
- Vergütung nach TV-L inkl. betrieblicher Altersvorsorge und vermögenswirksamer Leistungen
- 30 Tage Urlaub
- Flexible Arbeitszeiten
- Familienfreundliches Arbeitsumfeld
- Nachhaltig zur Arbeit: Vergünstigtes Deutschland-Jobticket
- Unser betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement bietet ein ganzheitliches Angebot für Ihr Wohlbefinden
- Entfalten Sie Ihr volles Potenzial: Zugang zum DKFZ International Postdoc Program und dem DKFZ Career Service mit gezielten Angeboten für Ihre persönliche Entwicklung fördern Ihre Talente
Sie sind interessiert?
Martina Benesova
Telefon: +49 (0) 6221 42 5355
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