Administrative Lab Technician

Reference number: 2026-0207

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Epithelium Microbiome Interactions

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.

We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and search 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.

Our Junior Research Group "Epithelium Microbiome Interactions" (headed by Dr. Jens Puschhof) is seeking, starting at the earliest date possible, a

  In the EMIL group, we study how bacteria contribute to cancer development, metastasis, and treatment response. Our team includes cancer researchers, tissue engineers, microbiologists, and bioinformaticians working together to help patients by deciphering the functional impacts of bacteria in human tumors.
Using tissue samples from patients, we isolate bacterial strains and create organoids. These models can be combined with additional features of the human gut on USB stick-sized devices, “organ chips”, for detailed studies. We transplant organoid-bacteria mixtures into mouse models to study their migration and interaction in a whole-body context.
In our unique biobank at DKFZ, we characterize both tumor organoids and tumor-resident bacterial strains through whole genome sequencing, fluorescence microscopy, and other cutting-edge methods. Based on the diverse data obtained, we develop hypotheses about how specific bacterial species might influence tumors. With our broad portfolio of patient-derived models, our main focus lies on testing these relationships. Through close collaborations with clinical partners, we work towards the rapid translation of our findings into new microbiome-based strategies for the detection, prevention, and treatment of cancer.

Your Tasks

• Organization and coordination of day-to-day laboratory operations, including inventory management, procurement, equipment maintenance, shipping, and logistics
• Coordination of occupational safety, biosafety, and laboratory safety procedures, including support with regulatory documentation and internal inspections
• Organization and quality control of shared consumables, reagents, and laboratory spaces
• Experimental and administrative management of the organoid biobank and bacterial strain collection
• Performance and coordination of key laboratory assays, particularly genotyping and mycoplasma testing
• Onboarding, practical instruction, and supervision of students and new group members
• Communication and coordination with suppliers, service providers, internal DKFZ units, and external collaboration partners

Your Profile

• Completed vocational training as a laboratory technician or an equivalent qualification
• Very good practical knowledge of biological and/or molecular biology laboratory work and laboratory organization
• Ideally, experience with inventory management, procurement, equipment coordination, and laboratory documentation
• Knowledge of occupational safety, biosafety, and relevant documentation requirements is an advantage
• Independent, structured, and reliable working style with strong organizational skills
• Very good communication and coordination skills when working with scientists, students, internal service units, and external partners
• Motivation to work in a diverse role combining hands-on laboratory with administrative and organizational responsibilities
• Very good written and spoken English and German

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: October 21, 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.

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