Jobbeschreibung

„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 Junior Research Group "Brain Mosaicism and Tumorigenesis" is seeking from July 2025 a

Data Scientist

Reference number: 2025-0119

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Brain Mosaicism and Tumorigenesis

The Brain Mosaicism and Tumorigenesis lab investigates how DNA damage and clonal dynamics in neural stem and progenitor cells shape brain development and contribute to pediatric brain tumor initiation. The team is particularly interested in how genomic instability — especially within long neural genes — arises during development and how the brain tolerates or responds to this damage. A central focus is on cellular mosaicism: the genetic variability among brain cells that can influence tissue architecture, neural function, and vulnerability to transformation. By examining how certain clones expand or are eliminated during development, the lab aims to understand the early steps of tumorigenesis in the context of normal brain growth.
To dissect these processes, the lab integrates single-cell sequencing, in vivo lineage tracing in mouse models, organoid systems, and functional genomics approaches. The lab has strong collaboration partner in mathematical modeling complements these experimental methods to quantify clonal competition and predict risk trajectories. Through this multidisciplinary strategy, the lab seeks to reveal how developmental tolerance to DNA damage intersects with mechanisms of early cancer evolution, with the goal of identifying critical windows for intervention and new strategies for early detection or prevention of pediatric brain cancers.

Your Tasks

We are looking for a highly motivated data scientist to study genome integrity, cancer evolution, and somatic mosaicism. You will apply and develop multi-omics integrated approaches to investigate genome vulnerability during cell proliferation. The successful candidate should have prior experience in handling genomics, transcriptomics, and single-cell omics datasets. Candidates with sufficient experience in machine learning and deep neural networks are particularly sought. We offer collaboration opportunities to work with world-renowned computational laboratories in data sciences, cancer development, and clonal evolution.

Genomics approaches used in our laboratory include, but are not restricted to, whole genome sequencing, targeted sequencing, Hi-C, 3C- or 4C-based sequencing, nascent and mature RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, Repli-Seq, Okazaki fragment sequencing, and single-cell transcriptomic and spatial omics.

Please submit your curriculum vitae, master's and/or doctoral degree certificates, and a letter of motivation via the DKFZ application portal. Applications sent through email cannot be considered.

Your Profile

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. degree in bioinformatics or a related scientific discipline (e.g. statistics, computer science, physics or molecular biotechnology)
• Prior bioinformatics training in transcriptomics, epigenomics, and genomics; deep neural network and machine learning experiences are preferred
• Strong analytical skills, as well as broad experience with scripting languages (e.g. Python, R, Bash); knowledge of common bioinformatics software and access to databases are essential
• Basic understanding of biology
• Proficient in English
• German is not required
• Collaborative, communicative, ambitious, attention to detail, curiosity-driven, and organized, the ability to work in a multidisciplinary international team will be expected
• Professional time management

We Offer

• Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and oppor­tunities for inter­national networking at the highest level
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments
• Possibility of mobile work and part-time work
• Family-friendly working environ­ment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Unleash your full potential: targeted offers for your personal develop­ment promote your talents
• Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being

Contact:
Dr. Pei-Chi Wei
Phone: +49 6221 42-3251

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

Are you interested?

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

Apply now

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.

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