“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.

The Division of Pediatric Neurooncology is seeking for the next possible date a

Recurrent copy-number alterations (CNAs) are a well-described feature of pediatric brain tumors such as high-grade glioma and medulloblastoma. Our recent findings indicate that subtype-specific CNAs play an essential role in tumorigenesis for many entities. Additionally, we have now found that somatic mouse models established in our groups closely mimic patient tumors and harbor recurrent CNAs that are syntenic to their human counterparts. The PhD student will use our robust mouse model platform to investigate the detailed molecular role of CNAs during solid tumor initiation, progression, and evolution.

The PhD student will:

• Establish when CNAs arise
• Identify gene expression
• Analyze chromatin accessibility changes in individual tumor cells over time using single-cell RNA and ATAC sequencing
• Pinpoint the occurrence of CNAs on a genomic level
• Analyze clonality and gene expression changes to identify putative functional consequences of early CNAs using single-cell whole-genome (ResolveOME) sequencing

Therefore, the project initially focuses on bioinformatic analyzes but offers the opportunity to work in the wet lab and with animal models at later stages. In addition to his/her own project, the PhD student would work in diverse collaborations with other students and postdocs.

• Completed master's or diploma degree in biology, bioinformatics, or a related field
• Background knowledge of tumor biology, particularly brain tumors, as well as experience in bioinformatics is beneficial (knowledge of Linux/Unix command line and R, experience in 1-2 programming languages, familiarity with job submission on computer clusters)
• Highly motivated and passionate about developing meaningful projects independently within a supportive team environment
• Excellent communication skills
• Reliability, attention to detail
• Thoughtfulness regarding experiments and colleagues is expected
• Experience with molecular biology laboratory methods and a willingness to work with animal models is beneficial but is not essential
• Fluency in verbal and written English

• 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 mobile work and part-time work
• Family-friendly working environ­ment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted offers for your personal develop­ment promote your talents
• Our Corporate Health Manage­ment Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being

Dr. Marc Zuckermann
Telefon: +49 6221 42-4637

The position is initially limited to 3 years.

Application Deadline: 16.09.2025

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.
Please also note that we cannot return applications submitted by post.

Are you interested?
Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!

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.

Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum | Im Neuenheimer Feld 280 | 69120 Heidelberg | www.dkfz.de