“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 Signaling and Functional Genomics is seeking for the next possible date a Postdoc – Bioinformatics / Computational Biology.

Reference number: 2025-0144 

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in bioinformatics and computational analysis to join the Division of Signaling and Functional Genomics led by Prof. Michael Boutros at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) in Heidelberg, Germany. Our group is pioneering novel methods for high-throughput genetic and pharmacological perturbations to systematically analyze signaling pathways and gene-drug interactions. In order to decipher the genetic and gene-drug interactions, we use model systems like Drosophila, human cell cultures, and patient-derived organoids in high-throughput screens (e.g., RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9, small molecules). In this context, we also develop new computational tools for automated analysis and data visualization. These include algorithms and software applications for RNAi and CRISPR reagent identification and off-target prediction (E-RNAi, E-CRISP), and public databases of functional screening data (GenomeRNAi, GenomeCRISPR), which are also part of the ELIXIR service portfolio. Further projects in the group are based on integrative analysis of multi-omics data, such as RNASeq (bulk or single-cell) and long-read genomics data.

Are you passionate about bioinformatics and eager to work in an interdisciplinary team? In our group you will work on the following tasks:

• Develop and adapt bioinformatics approaches for experimental design, data analysis, and integration of genomic data sets
• Design the concept of analysis workflows for high-throughput screens and integrative analysis
• Maintain and further develop software tools and databases for high-throughput screening experiments and add new content based on literature
• Support the group in analyzing multi-omics data, such as RNASeq and images
• Analyse and present the results
• Collaborate with internal and international collaboration partners
• Support and administer internal web- and Linux servers

• Academic degree (master and PhD) with a background in computer science, bioinformatics, physics, or related field
• Proven experience in omics data analysis
• Knowledge of Bioconductor/R for biological data analysis
• Experience in object-oriented software development and building of modern web-based applications
• Good analytical and (bio)statistical skills
• Knowledge of relevant programming languages such as Java, Python, and Perl
• Good knowledge of relational and document-oriented database design (e.g., MySQL, MongoDB)
• Experience with Git and Docker containers
• Knowledge of Django and workflow management systems (e.g., Snakemake or Nextflow) is beneficial
• Proficiency in applying artificial intelligence methods to biomedical data is a plus
• Experience in image processing techniques, such as segmentation, is of advantage
• Ability to quickly grasp new concepts and work independently on complex problems
• Ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team but also independently
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• 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.

• 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 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
• 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

Dr. Ulrike Hardeland
Phone: +496221 42-1961

Duration: The position is initially limited to 2 years with the possibility of prolongation.
Application Deadline: 05.06.2025

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