Technical Assistant

Reference number: 2026-0062

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Clinical Cooperation Unit "Applied Tumor Immunity"

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.

For the Clinical Cooperation Unit (CCU) "Applied Tumor Immunity", we are seeking for the next possible date a 

  The immune system influences the efficacy of many therapies and interventions. Thus, the identification of crucial immunological parameters, such as novel biomarkers, is of great importance. The aim of the Clinical Cooperation Unit (CCU) "Applied Tumor Immunity" is the characterization of immune responses directed against the tumor and the transfer of these findings into clinical applications. A particular focus of our research is the analysis of immunological interactions between tumor cells and host or immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and periphery to identify predictive biomarkers and develop novel immunotherapeutic approaches for solid tumors (e.g., TCR T cells, CAR T cells, bispecific antibodies, and peptide vaccines).

Translational Research in Immuno-oncology and Microbiome (TRIM) is an additional research group within the CCU "Applied Tumor Immunity". Our TRIM research team investigates how the gut microbiota influences the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies. We collaborate closely with clinical and research partners at the NCT and UKHD. We apply and continuously develop state-of-the-art analytical approaches to dissect microbiota–host–tumor interactions. These include multiparametric immune profiling (flow cytometry/FACS, bead-based cytokine assays) and molecular biology techniques such as qPCR and bulk and single-cell sequencing. Our work supports the testing and development of drugs targeting novel immunological pathways. The overarching goal of our research is to elucidate mechanisms underlying patient response and resistance to immunotherapy, with a particular focus on gut microbiota–driven immunosuppression.

Your Tasks

This is a translational research laboratory in which the candidate would be responsible for performing various lab duties. The successful candidate will assist the investigators in:

• Coordinating and executing the collection of human samples (e.g., blood, tissue, stool, etc.), their processing (e.g., PBMC isolation), and biobanking in adherence to ethical guidelines, data protection, and biosafety regulations and maintaining databases for translational programs and clinical trials
• Executing and optimizing a wide range of laboratory techniques, including but not limited to cell culture (BLS1/S2, passage of 2D cell lines and 3D culture models, organoids) and in vitro assays, immunoassays (FACS, functional assays, ELISA), as well as molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, cloning)
• Design, conduct, and documentation of animal experiments in accordance with legal and ethical standards, including the preparation of applications for animal experimentation permits
• General tasks related to laboratory organization (orders, training); in addition, you will maintain and operate modern laboratory equipment and independently perform computer-assisted data analysis and laboratory management
• Training and assistance in day-to-day supervision of junior staff, students, and interns
• Keeping highly organized documentation of activities
• Working efficiently and collaboratively as part of our team, supporting other team members in their day-to-day tasks

Your Profile

• Completed training as a biology laboratory assistant, BTA or similar
• Previous lab experience in the techniques mentioned in the job description (multicolor flow cytometry, animal experimentation)
• Motivated, responsible, and organized
• Good communication skills and the ability to document work
• Computer skills (Microsoft Office) and fair knowledge of English and German are needed
• Great sense of team spirit and a positive attitude to support your colleagues as well as work independently

Interested candidates should submit a CV, cover letter, certificates, and contact details of two references via the online application portal.

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: 22.04.2026

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.

Share this job!