Senior Scientist in Personalized Oncology

Reference number: 2024-0269

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Personalized Medical Oncology

“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.

Within the "DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim", we are looking for the Division of Personalized Medical Oncology (headed by Prof. Sonja Loges) at the earliest possible date for a 

  The DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute was established as a partnership between the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the University Hospital Mannheim and the Medical Faculty Mannheim of Heidelberg University with generous support from the Hector Foundation II.

Our division focusses on the identification of novel cancer-promoting mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment, tackling of therapy resistance and on functional characterization of atypical mutations in major cancer-driving oncogenes. Based on these functional insights we derive novel targets for therapeutic intervention. We translate our research findings into the clinic in the Translational Clinical Trial Unit of the DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim. Patient samples and data are directly available from our patients or within major academic networks in which we play a leading role such as national Network Genomic Medicine Lung Cancer (nNGM).

The successful candidate has a strong and original research profile in personalized oncology and is able to independently carry out scientific projects and supervise junior scientists as well as technical staff. Areas of special interest include innovative experimental oncology with a translational perspective in lung cancer, tumor microenvironment, plasticity, therapy resistance, patient-derived models such as organoids or precision-cut lung slices, immune oncology and digital oncology using innovative approaches such as single-cell technologies and machine learning. The selected candidate is strongly encouraged to apply for independent third-party funding (e.g. DFG).

We are offering an exciting and challenging field of work with a high level of independence for research as well as an excellent work environment in a dynamic and multinational team, which works closely with national as well as international collaboration partners in academics as well as pharmaceutical companies. The location is Heidelberg.

Your Tasks

• Conceptualization and development of own projects
• Development of patient-derived model system platform to predict response and overcome resistance
• Supervision of Postdocs, PhD, undergraduate students and technical staff
• Project planning and management
• Independent application for research grants
• Gene technology (S2) project manager, including expertise according to §28 GenTSV
• Writing of research papers
• Presentation of results in the academic community

Your Profile

We are looking forward to receive applications from highly motivated, experienced scientists (1-2 years of Postdoc or more). Applicants should hold a master's degree as well as a PhD, MD or MD-PhD with a proven track record of research excellence with first-author publications. Applicants should have a documented strong expertise in cancer biology, precision oncology, patient-derived model systems such as organoids, cloning strategies including CRISPR-Cas9, pre-clinical tumor models, protein biochemistry, molecular biology, single cell technologies as well as experience in digital oncology. Bioinformatic proficiency (e.g. handling data sets in R / Python) and proof of gene technology expertise according to §28 GenTSV and FELASA C certificate would be appreciated. The scientist on this position is expected to work independently and synergize with other members / groups of the division. We are looking for a candidate with excellent social skills, capable of leading others to success and managing external project stakeholders. An excellent communication skill for scientific discussion is indispensable as well as a high level of self-motivation, enthusiasm and the willingness to perform high quality work. Proficiency in German and English is mandatory. Experience in project management is an asset. Experience with the acquisition of third-party funding proven by successful applications is desired but not mandatory.

Full applications should include curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation, certificates, expected availability date, a list of publications and 2-3 references.

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 limited to 3 years with the possibility of prolongation.

Application Deadline: 09.10.2024

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.

 

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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