PhD Student in Bioinformatics
Reference number: 2024-0300
- Heidelberg
- Full-time
- Clinical Cooperation Unit "Molecular Hematology / 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.
We are seeking for the Clinical Cooperation Unit "Molecular Hematology / Oncology" a
The Clinical Cooperation Unit "Molecular Hematology / Oncology" is a joined department between the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and the Department of Internal Medicine V of the Heidelberg University Hospital with a translational and clinical research focus on Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP). As a department involved in both research and treatment of CUP, we are committed to scientifically exploring the biology of the disease and linking research findings to patient care.
Our group is currently seeking a PhD student in bioinformatics to work on German Cancer Aid (Deutsche Krebshilfe) funded translational research projects involving tissue of origin prediction and molecular classification based on DNA methylation, DNAseq and RNAseq profiling of tumor samples.
Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP) is a paradigm metastatic malignancy, in which only metastases but no primary tumor can be identified. To improve on its dismal prognosis, we have recently completed large clinical trials, examining the benefits of targeted treatments and immunotherapy compared to standard chemotherapy. Within the frame of these clinical trials, our translational research program employs multi-omics profiling of large cohorts of primary CUP tumor samples for tissue-of-origin identification, molecular classification and analysis of disease biology.
Your Tasks
A PhD position is available in our group for a highly motivated and skilled researcher with a background in bioinformatics or computational biology. The successful candidate will participate in a project aimed at developing computational tools to improve and validate a tissue of origin classifier and a molecular classification framework based on already available DNA methylation, DNAseq and RNAseq data derived from CUP tumor samples generated within clinical trials.
This position offers opportunities to establish novel projects in tumor classification and pathophysiological characterization, as well as expand potential applications beyond tissue-of-origin prediction and molecular classification. The candidate will work with large CUP datasets and in close collaboration with clinical cancer researchers and molecular biologists within a multidisciplinary team.
Your Profile
- Master's degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, genomics, biostatistics, computer science or a related field
- Strong bioinformatics analytical skills and experience with Linux / Unix command line as well as proficiency in programming languages such as R and Python, Bash scripting and deep learning frameworks
- Ability to acquire and process data from sequencing facilities or public resources, run and adapt existing pipelines and develop new ones
- Profound knowledge of cancer biology and cancer genomics is a plus
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team with outstanding self-initiative, positive work attitude, strong work ethic and team spirit
- Excellent communication skills in English as well as writing, presentation and data management skills
Applications must include a CV, cover letter, list of publications, references or recommendation letters and expected availability date.
We Offer
Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
Access to international research networks
Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
30 days of vacation per year
Flexible working hours
Possibility of part-time work
Family-friendly working environment
Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
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!
Prof. Dr. Alwin Krämer
Phone: +49 (0)6221/42-1440
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.
