Technical Assistant

Reference number: 2026-0029

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• B Cell Immunology

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.

The Division of B Cell Immunology is seeking for the next possible date a

  The protein design team in the Division of B Cell Immunology is in the process of establishing state-of-the-art computational and high-throughput experimental validation methods in functional, de novo protein design. Over the next two years, the team will jointly develop computational methods for protein design and high-throughput assays for screening and characterization. We will apply protein design to immunological and cancer targets at DKFZ, pushing the boundaries of model and experimental capabilities.

Your Tasks

In this role, you will support laboratory setup for the protein design team and optimize protocols for cell-free and E. coli-based assays for high-throughput protein characterization.  You will help establish and compare different screening methods for their suitability, including assays based on FACS or magnetic sorting, growth-based selection, and next-generation sequencing. You will plan the experiments in close collaboration with the protein design team, and other members of the lab and communicate the results to the wider team. Data analysis and visualization using Excel, PowerPoint and statistical software are expected. Over the course of your role, you will be interacting with computational design pipelines and will be expected to acquire basic proficiency in Python.

Your Profile

The protein design team is searching for a flexible, motivated team player with organizational talent, a high sense of responsibility, and excellent communication skills who can comfortably and independently work in a diverse, international environment. A completed training as a technical assistant (TA, BTA, MTA, CTA) or an equivalent degree is a prerequisite. Experience with molecular cloning techniques in E. coli, including familiarity with cloning software such as SnapGene and preparation of custom sequencing libraries, is required. We also expect experience in planning, implementing, and analyzing experiments. Experience working in both cell-free and E. coli protein expression and purification is desirable. The candidate should have very good written and spoken English and German skills to be able to communicate confidently in the work environment. Proficiency in MS Office applications and IT skills are required.

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: 20.03.2026

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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