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.

The Division of Signaling and Functional Genomics, headed by Prof. Dr. Michael Boutros at the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, is seeking for the next possible date a

Postdoc – Spatial Single-Cell Perturbation Maps

Reference number: 2026-0031

• Heidelberg
• Full-time
• Signaling and Functional Genomics

Our division is interested in systematically analyzing developmental-oncogenic signaling pathways using a combination of experimental and computational approaches. Within this project, we are creating perturbation-based genetic maps at the level of individual cells by using spatial single-cell sequencing technologies.
The position is funded by the ERC Synergy Project DECODE as a close collaboration between DKFZ, EMBL and Heidelberg University.

Your Tasks

As part of our team, we are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to lead the performance of novel spatial and single-cell profiling in combination with genome-editing approaches in high throughput. The ERC DECODE project develops and applies leading-edge system genetics methods to decode context-dependent genetic networks in vivo. To achieve this, the ERC Synergy Project brings together experimental and theoretical groups with complementary expertise in model organism genetics and cellular phenotyping, single-cell genomics, statistics, and computational biology. Building on our combined expertise, we are creating functional genetic maps using conditional CRISPR/Cas9-based single and higher-order knockout perturbations combined with single-cell expression profiling and imaging. We expect that this project will advance new genome-editing and single-cell approaches and will provide fundamental insights into the cellular circuitries that govern processes in a metazoan organism. The particular focus of the postdoctoral position will be on the development, automation and application of single-cell methodologies for genome-editing analyses.

Your Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher, preferably with a strong background in the development of single-cell technologies, CRISPR, high-throughput technologies, and molecular biology. Candidates should have an advanced academic degree (master's and Ph.D.) in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology or a related field and have published previously in peer-reviewed journals. Knowledge in single-cell RNA-seq, laboratory automation and data analysis, and/or Drosophila genetics is an advantage. The candidate should be able to work independently and also have excellent teamwork skills. The position further requires organizational qualifications and the ability to communicate effectively with internal and external collaborators. 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 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

Contact:
Dr. Ulrike Hardeland
Phone: +49 6221 42-1961

The position is limited until 30.06.2027.

Application Deadline: 20.03.2026

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.

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