Research Associate - Functional Genomics
Reference number: 2025-0139
- Heidelberg
- Full-time
- Precision Sarcoma Research

“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.
The Precision Sarcoma Research group at the German Cancer Research Center and the National Center for Tumor Diseases Heidelberg (Head: Dr. Priya Chudasama) is seeking for the next possible date a
We are looking for a qualified and motivated research associate to expand our international, inclusive and ambitious team to contribute to projects focused on better understanding of rare cancers called bone and soft-tissue sarcoma, a large and heterogeneous group of aggressive tumors affecting all age groups with urgent unmet medical need. Our group uses computational and functional genomics approaches to characterize tumor specimens and cell models to identify mechanisms of sarcomagenesis and new biology-guided treatments. More details on the team and specific on-going projects could be found here: https://www.dkfz.de/en/precision-sarcoma-research
YOUR TASKS
The successful candidate will flexibly support different on-going projects in the lab in close collaboration with team members and external collaborators, and take on lab management and coordination duties. The methods and general responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Analysis of next-generation sequencing data derived from human sarcoma samples to identify genome, transcriptome and methylome alterations, if bioinformatics expertise is available
- CRISPR/Cas9 screens
- Molecular biology methods (sample preparation, cloning, sequencing, mutagenesis, PCR)
- Routine cell culture methods (culture of cell lines, production of lentiviruses, transduction of cell lines, different assays for hallmarks of cancer)
- Flow cytometry and cell sorting
- Protein detection (western blotting, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence)
- Comprehensive documentation and presentation of results in lab meetings and conferences
- Independent planning and coordination of project, analysis and interpretation of results, establishment of new methods, supervision of new lab members
- Manage key communication with collaborators, third-party service providers, and other internal departments
- Support laboratory management (ordering of reagents and consumables, maintaining inventories and lab databases, shipments)
YOUR PROFILE
- Master of Science, PhD or equivalent degree
- Extensive experience with cell culture and molecular biology methods
- Competence and experience in programming languages (R, Python), experience with analysis of next-generation sequencing data will be a plus
- Exceptional organizational and time management skills, willingness to support different projects in parallel, as well as to move between sites for use of different technology platforms
- True team player, high level of intrinsic motivation, reliability
- Excellent command of written and spoken English and effective oral and written presentation skills, German language skills would be helpful but not a must
Interested candidates should send applications with full CV with publications, references and cover letter explicitly mentioning the date of availability. Incomplete applications will not be considered. In case of urgent questions, please write an email to priya.chudasama@nct-heidelberg.de. Please apply exclusively via the application portal.
We Offer
Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
30 days of vacation per year
Flexible working hours
Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments
Possibility of part-time work
Family-friendly working environment
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
Are you interested?
Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!
Dr. Priya Chudasama
Telefon: +49 6221 42 1600
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.