Reference number: 2025-0144

Heidelberg

Full-time

Signaling and Functional Genomics

“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.

At the earliest date possible the Division of Signaling and Functional Genomics is looking for a

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.

YOUR TASKS

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

YOUR PROFILE

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.

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 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

ARE YOU INTERESTED?

Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!

Contact:

Dr. Ulrike Hardeland
Phone: +49(0)6221/42-1961

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

Application Deadline: 26.06.2025

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.

Postdoc – Bioinformatics / Computational Biology