Technical Assistant in Personalized Medical Oncology

Reference number: 2026-0137

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute — Personalized Medical Oncology

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 DKFZ Hector Cancer Institute at University Medicine Mannheim is a leading research institution in the field of oncology. It was established as a long-term partnership between the DKFZ, the University Medical Centre Mannheim, and the Medical Faculty Mannheim of Heidelberg University. Generously funded by the Hector Foundation II, our institute is dedicated to the full spectrum of cancer research – from fundamental biological mechanisms and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to strategies for prevention, early detection, and survivorship. Through this integrative approach, we aim to reduce the burden of disease and sustainably improve the quality of life for those affected. Our institute offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary working environment with excellent scientific infrastructure and diverse collaboration opportunities.

To strengthen our team in Heidelberg, we are seeking, as of September 2026, a 

  The Department of "Personalized Medical Oncology" (Head: Prof. Dr. Dr. Sonja Loges) focuses on identifying new cancer-promoting mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment, combating therapy resistance, and functionally characterizing atypical mutations in key cancer-promoting oncogenes. Based on these functional insights, we derive new targets for therapeutic interventions. In the Translational Clinical Trial Unit of the DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at Heidelberg University Medicine, we translate our research findings into clinical practice.
The position is based in Heidelberg.

Your Tasks

• Supporting the establishment of a new research group
• Preparation of samples for mass spectrometry and their analysis
• Routine maintenance of a GC-MS system
• Conducting and assisting with mouse experiments, including tissue processing and genotyping
• Cell culture work, including culturing various immortalized cell lines, performing viability assays and co-cultures, and generating and culturing organoids
• Processing and culturing primary cells
• Applying methods of molecular biology and protein biochemistry, including real-time PCR, PCR with prior tissue processing, FACS analysis, (CRISPR-based) cloning, single-cell sequencing, Western blot, and ELISA
• Histology, e.g., processing tissue samples, preparing sections, (immuno-)histological staining including analysis, and immunocytology
• Laboratory management, ordering consumables, onboarding new colleagues, coordinating repairs, annual inventory, etc.
• Supervising students and apprentices

Your Profile

• Completed training as a medical or biological technical assistant or comparable knowledge and experience
• Prerequisites:
• Experience with LC/GC-MS analysis (e.g. with IsoCor, R), instrument maintenance, and troubleshooting
• Experience with establishing LC/GC-MS methods
• Experience with cell culture, stable isotope tracing, and MS derivatization
• Willingness to work with human tissue and mice
• Excellent English skills
• Very good MS Office skills
• Precision, commitment, teamwork, flexibility regarding tasks and approaches, as well as strong coordination and organizational skills

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 1 year.

Application Deadline: July 24, 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!