Research / Data Scientist in Bioinformatics

Reference number: 2026-0048

• Heidelberg
• Full-time, Part-time
• Soft-tissue Sarcoma

The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) is one of Europe’s largest cancer research centers. “Research for a life without cancer" is the mission of our world-class scientists and all our team members.

The DKFZ is a place where the brightest minds pursue bold ideas and seek answers to pioneering scientific questions through collaboration, innovation, and exploration across many disciplines. We provide a dynamic environment which empowers excellence with state-of-the-art technologies, cutting edge infrastructure, and a global scientific network. 

Contribute your knowledge, vision, and dedication to create a space where scientific discovery in cancer research is transformed into benefits for human health.

The Division of Soft-Tissue Sarcoma at DKFZ applies cutting-edge technology to study and dissect the underlying molecular mechanisms in many types of soft-tissue sarcomas, where chromosomal translocations generate fusion oncoproteins that serve as drivers of the disease. By combining a toolbox consisting of CRISPR/Cas9, RNAi technology, cellular barcoding, and mouse modeling tools, our goal is to systematically address key genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in the pathobiology of pediatric sarcomas.

To strengthen our team, we are seeking for the next possible date a

  Your work will focus on bioinformatic analyses of transcriptomic, genomic, and epigenomic data of single-cell and bulk datasets, derived from various projects within the lab. Methodologies used in our laboratory include, but are not limited to, whole genome sequencing, RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, Cut&Run, cellular barcoding, and single-cell transcriptomics. Our goal is to comprehensively study the impact of gene fusions and other genetic drivers in sarcomagenesis, uncover specific vulnerabilities they create, and ultimately aim at maximizing the potential for rapid clinical translation.

You will work in an international, highly collaborative environment with PhD students and postdoctoral researchers and be embedded in the vibrant research ecosystem of the Hopp Children’s Cancer Center Heidelberg (KiTZ).

Your Tasks

We are looking for a data scientist / bioinformatician:

• to generate and harmonize user-friendly, standardized data analysis pipelines for a variety of computational tasks, including, but not limited to, mutation calling, bulk and single-cell RNA-seq analysis, ChIP-seq/Cut&Run analysis, CRISPR screen analysis, and DNA barcoding analysis,
• to perform large-scale data integration of single-cell RNA-seq datasets and generate user-friendly applications for data exploration,
• to perform data analysis derived from diverse scientific topics in collaboration with PhD students and postdocs,
• to train students and postdocs in basic data analysis pipeline implementation and bioinformatics workflows.

Your Profile

• Master's or PhD degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, statistics, computer science, physics, molecular biotechnology, or a related discipline
• Prior bioinformatics training in transcriptomics, epigenomics, and/or genomics
• Strong analytical skills, as well as broad experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, R, Bash); knowledge of common bioinformatics software and access to databases are essential
• Basic understanding of biology
• Proficient in English; German is not required
• Collaborative, communicative, ambitious, datail-oriented, curious, and organized, as well as the ability to work in a multidisciplinary international team is expected
• Professional time management

Please submit your curriculum vitae, master's and/or doctoral degree certificates, a letter of motivation, and contact information of 2 references via the DKFZ application portal. Applications sent by email cannot be considered.

We Offer

Are you interested?

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

 ​Duration: The position is initially limited to 2 years with the possibility of prolongation.

Application Deadline: 07.04.2026

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.

Please also note that we cannot return applications submitted by post.

 

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.

Share this job!