„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 Molecular Genetics is seeking from April 2025 a

SCIENTIST / POSTDOC IN THE FIELD OF CANCER PLASTICITY

Reference number: 2025-0032Your Tasks
We are looking for a scientist / postdoc to work on the regulation of phenotypic plasticity and therapy resistance by redox and metabolic signaling in brain tumors.
The project is part of a research consortium receiving long-term funding by the Carl Zeiss Stiftung. The overall goal of the consortium is to use advanced molecular profiling of glioblastoma organoid models and artificial intelligence methods to map mechanisms of therapy resistance and vulnerabilities.
In this context, we will focus on the redox- and epigenetic mechanisms governing glioblastoma cell-state transitions and tumor phenotype, building on our previous work on the metabolic enzyme BCAT1 and its effects on cell division, DNA methylation and cellular differentiation. We will use engineered iPSC-derived tumor-organoids as well-defined and brain tumors models. Organoid gene expression and phenotypes will be analyzed by scRNA-Seq and epigenetic profiling after pharmacologic and genetic manipulation. In collaboration with our consortium partners, we will use AI to map tumor plasticity landscapes and identify and experimentally validate approaches inducing and exploiting tumor-specific therapy vulnerabilities.
More information can be found at https://www.dkfz.de/en/molecular-genetics/phenotypic-plasticity.
Your Profile

Applicants should hold a M.Sc. and PhD degree in biology / life sciences with a neuroscience/tumor biology background and have an excellent command of the English language. German language skills are of advantage, but not required. Experiences in iPSC or organoid model systems and sequencing data analysis are desirable.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

Please refer the Job description for details