“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 Medical Physics in Radiation Oncology is seeking, in close cooperation with the Division of Radiooncology/Radiobiology, from September 2025 a Postdoctoral Researcher – Longitudinal Proteomic Analysis (Wet Lab & Data Science).

Reference number: 2025-0174

The Division of Medical Physics in Radiation Oncology develops new technologies and investigates physical, radiobiological and clinical aspects of photon, proton and ion beam irradiations. This includes experimental radiobiological studies.

The Division of Radiooncology/Radiobiology is dedicated to investigating molecular pathways in tumor and normal tissue response to irradiation.

The candidate will perform a full proteomic analysis in existing tissue samples of two rat prostate carcinoma sublines irradiated with curative or subcurative doses of carbon ions, protons and photons. The work includes tissue preparation for Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectroscopy (LC-MS) and focusses on biostatistical analysis of the obtained protein expression profiles and the experimental validation of the findings in tissue sections.

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary team focused on longitudinal proteomic analysis to decipher differential biological action of photon, proton and ion beams on rat prostate tumor samples. This position requires a strong background in both experimental proteomics and computational data science (R and Python), with an emphasis on LC-MS/MS workflows and long-term cohort studies.

Key qualifications and responsibilities:

• Master's degree and Ph.D. in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or a related analytical science discipline
• Hands-on experience in quantitative and qualitative proteomics
• Expertise in LC-MS/MS techniques, including eventually post-translational modification (PTM) analysis
• Proficiency with bioinformatics and statistical analysis tools, especially in R and Python, for processing and interpreting complex proteomics data
• Familiarity with proteomics software for data analysis, visualization, and management
• Experience with biological samples (e.g., FFPE, plasma, CSF) and/or advanced workflows such as spatial proteomics is highly desirable
• Strong collaborative spirit and working in interdisciplinary environments
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with a broad scientific audience
• Willingness to contribute to grant writing, project proposals, and to represent the team at scientific meetings and conferences

This is a unique opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher looking to bridge experimental proteomics with data-driven insights, thereby leveraging differential beam qualities and a unique longitudinal dataset.

• 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
• 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

Prof. Dr. Christian Karger
Phone: +49 6221 42-2596

The position is limited to 2 years due to the duration of the project.

Application Deadline: 22.07.2025

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.

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