Scientist for the Analysis of the Tumor Immune Environment

„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 Clinical Cooperation Unit "Applied Tumor Immunity" at the German Cancer Research Center and the National Center for Tumor Diseases Heidelberg is seeking a highly motivated Scientist for the Analysis of the Tumor Immune Environment.

Reference number: 2024-0293 

The National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) is a long-term cooperation between the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), excellent partners in university medicine and other research institutions at six locations in Germany. The goal of the NCT is to bring promising results from cancer research into clinical application quickly and safely. This approach is intended to provide cancer patients with nationwide access to innovative treatment options.

One of the six NCT sites is the NCT Heidelberg, which is a collaboration between the DKFZ, Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD), Heidelberg University and Thoraxklinik Heidelberg.

The successful applicant will join the dynamic multidisciplinary team – comprising wet-lab scientists, physicians and computational scientists – of the Applied Tumor Immunity Clinical Cooperation Unit headed by Prof. Dr. Dirk Jäger at DKFZ and NCT Heidelberg. You will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and clinical trials and to make a significant impact on deciphering the tumor immune environment in solid cancers.

• Design and optimize multi-marker immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence protocols for tissues
• Oversee tissue processing, embedding, sectioning and staining of human tissue samples
• Validate and troubleshoot existing staining protocols to ensure accuracy and reproducibility
• Design / execute experiments using spatial technologies, e.g. spatial transcriptomics and multiplex immunofluorescence
• Design stain to slide analysis workflows that can drive discovery and translation of spatial biology insights to the clinic
• Perform tissue annotations and image analysis using digital pathology software, e.g. HALO, QuPath
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and contribute to the development of novel hypotheses
• Design experiments with internal / external partners and coordinate implementation to enable project success
• Supervise technicians and work closely with biologists, clinicians and computational scientists to drive translational and clinical research
• Oversee the seamless operation of the lab, e.g. scheduling, training, supply management and maintenance of the technical infrastructure
• Maintain detailed record keeping and required documentation
• Stay current with advancements in the aforementioned fields and apply new techniques to ongoing projects
• Present research findings at conferences and contribute to the preparation of scientific publications and grant applications

• A PhD (or Master with 5 years of industry / research experience) in biology, immunology, biomedical science, biomedical engineering or related field with a strong emphasis on histology and spatial technologies
• Prior experience in cancer research and particularly in the tumor immune environment
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data interpretation in the context of tumor immunology
• Ability to work independently but also within our multidisciplinary research environment
• Strong problem-solving skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Hands-on experience with tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and histological staining techniques
• Proficiency in spatial technologies such as spatial transcriptomics, multiplex immunofluorescence or similar methods
• Expertise in tissue biomarkers and an understanding of the tumor immune contexture
• Experience with digital pathology software, e.g. HALO, QuPath
• Knowledge of molecular biology, cell culture, or immunological assays
• Experience in writing, managing and reviewing SOPs
• Experience in general lab management, e.g. purchasing, stock controls, working with field service engineers, routine calibration, quality control, waste management
• Proven track record of research publications in journals and conferences related to the position

Your CV and cover letter outlining your accomplishments and prior wet-lab experience (relevant to the ad) must be included in your application. The contact information of 2-3 referees who can speak to your academic or professional qualifications must be included as well.

• 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