Postdoc – Spatial Single-Cell Perturbation Maps
Reference number: 2026-0031
- Heidelberg
- Full-time
- Signaling and Functional Genomics
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 Signaling and Functional Genomics, headed by Prof. Dr. Michael Boutros at the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, is seeking for the next possible date a
Our division is interested in systematically analyzing developmental-oncogenic signaling pathways using a combination of experimental and computational approaches. Within this project, we are creating perturbation-based genetic maps at the level of individual cells by using spatial single-cell sequencing technologies.
The position is funded by the ERC Synergy Project DECODE as a close collaboration between DKFZ, EMBL and Heidelberg University.
Your Tasks
As part of our team, we are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to lead the performance of novel spatial and single-cell profiling in combination with genome-editing approaches in high-throughput. The ERC DECODE project develops and applies leading-edge system genetics methods to decode context-dependent genetic networks in vivo. To achieve this, the ERC Synergy Project brings together experimental and theoretical groups with complementary expertise in model organism genetics and cellular phenotyping, single-cell genomics, statistics, and computational biology. Building on our combined expertise, we are creating functional genetic maps using conditional CRISPR/Cas9-based single and higher-order knockout perturbations combined with single-cell expression profiling and imaging. We expect that this project will advance new genome-editing and single-cell approaches and will provide fundamental insights into the cellular circuitries that govern processes in a metazoan organism. The particular focus of the postdoctoral position will be on the development, automation and application of single-cell methodologies for genome-editing analyses.
Your Profile
We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher, preferably with a strong background in the development of single-cell technologies, CRISPR, high-throughput technologies, and molecular biology. Candidates should have an advanced academic degree (master's and Ph.D.) in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology or a related field and have published previously in peer-reviewed journals. Knowledge in single-cell RNA-seq, laboratory automation and data analysis, and/or Drosophila genetics is an advantage. The candidate should be able to work independently and also have excellent teamwork skills. The position further requires organizational qualifications and the ability to communicate effectively with internal and external collaborators. An excellent written and oral command of English is essential.
The application shall include a CV, a letter of motivation, degree certificates, and names and contact information of at least two references.
We Offer
Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments
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
Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being
Develop your full potential: access to the DKFZ International Postdoc Program and DKFZ Career Service with targeted offers for your personal development to further develop your talents
Are you interested?
Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!
Dr. Ulrike Hardeland
Phone: +49(0)6221/42-1961
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.
