Reference number: 2026-0165
Heidelberg
Full-time
Tumor Ecosystem Biology
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.
The DKFZ is a place where the brightest minds pursue bold ideas and seek answers to pioneering scientific questions through collaboration, innovation, and exploration across many disciplines. We provide a dynamic environment which empowers excellence with state-of-the-art technologies, cutting edge infrastructure, and a global scientific network.
Contribute your knowledge, vision, and dedication to create a space where scientific discovery in cancer research is transformed into benefits for human health.
For our newly established Junior Research Group “Tumor Ecosystem Biology”, we are seeking, starting in November 2026, a
The Tumor Ecosystem Biology Laboratory at the DKFZ investigates how tumor-intrinsic programs and the tissue microenvironment interact to shape pancreatic cancer initiation, evolution, and therapeutic response. We combine advanced genetically engineered mouse models, functional genomics, spatial multi-omics, and computational analysis to understand how local cellular interactions establish immunosuppressive tumor ecosystems. Our recent work uncovered spatially organized immune niches that govern tumor progression and identified novel regulators of immune evasion (Nature, accepted; Cancer Discov. 2023 Feb 6;13(2): 278-297; Nat Cancer. 2022 Mar;3(3): 318-336; Nat Commun. 2023 May 8;14(1): 2642).
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate the earliest events that shape pancreatic cancer development and immune evasion.
Your Tasks
The successful candidate will lead projects addressing how environmental exposures, inflammation, and immune surveillance influence pancreatic tumor initiation and evolution. Using genetically engineered mouse models, lineage tracing, spatial transcriptomics, multiplex imaging, single-cell sequencing, and functional perturbation approaches, the project aims to define how tissue states established before or during early neoplasia determine the emergence of distinct tumor ecosystems and immune-evasive programs.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to:
Lead an independent research project investigating the earliest stages of pancreatic cancer development and immune evasion.
Develop and apply advanced in vivo models of pancreatic cancer, including genetically engineered mouse models and orthotopic transplantation systems.
Combine CRISPR-based functional genomics with spatial transcriptomics, multiplex imaging, single-cell sequencing, and computational analysis to investigate tumor evolution.
Integrate molecular, cellular, and spatial datasets to identify mechanisms governing tumor initiation, immune editing, and therapeutic resistance.
Collaborate closely with computational biologists, clinicians, and basic scientists within the DKFZ and with national and international collaborators.
Contribute to the supervision and mentoring of PhD students and technical staff within an exciting and collaborative research environment.
Your Profile
We are looking for outstanding, highly motivated candidates with a master's degree and PhD in cancer biology, immunology, molecular biology, genetics, or a related discipline. Applicants should have a strong publication record and expertise in one or more of the following areas: mouse models of cancer, cancer immunology, spatial biology, functional genomics, single-cell technologies, or computational analysis of high-dimensional datasets. Experience with pancreatic cancer models is advantageous but not required. Strong communication skills, scientific independence, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research are essential.
We offer a highly collaborative and international research environment, access to state-of-the-art technologies and core facilities, intensive scientific mentoring, and the opportunity to establish an independent research profile at the interface of cancer biology, immunology, and spatial genomics.
We Offer
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 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
Are you interested?
Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!
Contact:
Dr. Chiara Falcomatà
Phone: +49 (0)6221/42-2969
Duration: The position is initially limited to 2 years with the possibility of prolongation.
Application Deadline: September 15, 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.
