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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.

Together with university partners at seven renowned partner sites, we have established the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK).

For the DKTK partner site Frankfurt / Mainz, we are seeking for the next possible date a

Junior Research Group Leader “Translation of Next Generation Anti-Cancer Cellular Immunotherapies“

Reference number: 2025-0281

Mainz – Full-time – DKTK partner site Frankfurt/Mainz – Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology at the UMC Mainz

The DKFZ and the DKTK partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, especially the Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology with its rich and outstanding expertise in cellular therapy, the Institute for Immunology, the Helmholtz Institute for Translational Oncology Mainz (HI-TRON Mainz) – a Helmholtz Institute of the German Cancer Research Center – the Institute for Transfusion Medicine, and the Institute for Molecular Biology (IMB) provide an outstanding, dynamic, and vibrant research environment focused on interdisciplinary team science and including access to numerous state-of-the-art technological platforms/core facilities, locally and DKTK-wide.

DKTK conducts transformative translational cancer research, educates the next generation of translation-oriented researchers, and establishes strong pipelines towards clinical application and economic innovation. Further information can be found at https://dktk.dkfz.de/en.

We seek to appoint an independent junior research group leader with a strong background in cellular immunotherapies to match the scientific profile of the DKTK partner site Frankfurt/Mainz (https://dktk.dkfz.de/en/sites/frankfurt-mainz) at the Mainz location. The group will be physically located at the Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology at the UMC Mainz.

We expect from the candidate a fully translational research program that fosters the interdisciplinary development of next-generation gene-modified immune cellular products targeting malignant disease and/or the tumor microenvironment. The successful candidate is expected to get engaged in the lively scientific community on the campus and to integrate constructively into joint translational scientific efforts at the DKTK partner site and beyond. Direct links to groups and departments involved in cellular therapy research should be fostered, which in turn will offer ample opportunity to develop a unique scientific portfolio.

The candidate should have a strong focus on targeted immunotherapy and bring together a vast set of diverse scientific methodologies. The new junior research group, therefore, should reflect this engaging spirit and will foster the development of relevant translational approaches.

YOUR PROFILE

• PhD in life or data sciences and/or MD in medicine
• Excellent postdoctoral achievements (typically 3–6 years) in a research area that aligns with the focus area above
• Significant international research experience (typically >3 years)
• Proven expertise in translational cancer research, ideally bridging preclinical and clinical approaches
• Strong publication record and history of ambitious acquisition of competitive third-party funding, appropriate to career stage
• Leadership skills, diversity competency, and commitment to mentoring junior scientists and students
• Vision for an innovative, internationally competitive research program
• Strong motivation to collaborate with other DKTK sites and within interdisciplinary networks
• Experience in managing interdisciplinary research projects
• Independent, proactive working style, with a strong sense of responsibility
• Willingness to engage in teaching and academic training activities is welcome
• Fluency in written and spoken English

To apply for this position, your applications should include:

• CV
• List of publications
• Up to 5-page research statement summarizing current/past research accomplishments and outlining a 6-year research program
• Contact information of your current supervisor and two/three (international) senior scientist who are willing to provide letters of support

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to present their research and project vision for the DKTK partner site Frankfurt/Mainz and the DKTK network at a public recruitment symposium.

Contact:
Prof. Dr. med. Matthias Theobald
Phone: 06131 177281

The position is limited to 6 years.

Application Deadline: 07.01.2026

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.
Please also note that we cannot return applications submitted by post.

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.

Do not overlook the inclusion of Academic Europe in your application.