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

Internetchemie; Ludwigshafen am Rhein; Vor Ort; EUR 60.000 - 80.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading cancer research institution in Mainz is looking for a Junior Research Group Leader to spearhead a research group focused on next-generation anti-cancer cellular immunotherapies. This role involves significant international collaboration and a commitment to mentoring. Ideal candidates should possess a PhD in life sciences or an MD, with a strong publication record and leadership skills. The position offers 30 vacation days, flexible working hours, and a family-friendly working environment.

Leistungen

Core funding for six years

30 days of vacation per year

Possibility of mobile work

Comprehensive further training

Family-friendly working environment

Flexible working hours

Qualifikationen

• 3-6 years of excellent post-doctoral achievements in a relevant research area.
• Significant international research experience typically greater than 3 years.
• Proven expertise in translational cancer research.

Aufgaben

• Lead an independent research group focused on cellular immunotherapies.
• Develop a fully translational research program.
• Establish collaborations with related groups.

Kenntnisse

Leadership skills

Collaboration

Fluency in English

Independent working style

Ausbildung

PhD in life sciences or MD in medicine

Jobbeschreibung

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, together with university partners at seven renowned sites, established the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK). We provide a dynamic environment that empowers excellence with state‑of‑the‑art technologies, cutting‑edge infrastructure, and a global scientific network.

Position

Title: Junior Research Group Leader – “Translation of Next‑Generation Anti‑Cancer Cellular Immunotherapies”

Location: Mainz (Full‑time)

Department: Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, UMC Mainz (DKTK partner site Frankfurt/Mainz)

Reference number: 2025‑0281

Role & Responsibilities

• Lead an independent research group focused on cellular immunotherapies, specifically gene‑modified immune cellular products targeting malignant disease and/or the tumor microenvironment.
• Develop and execute a fully translational research program that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across the DKTK network.
• Engage with the vibrant scientific community at the campus and integrate constructively into joint translational efforts across DKTK partners.
• Establish collaborations with related groups and departments to build a unique scientific portfolio.

Your profile

• PhD in life or data sciences and/or MD in medicine.
• Excellent post‑doctoral achievements (3–6 years) in a research area aligned with the focus described above.
• Significant international research experience (typically >3 years).
• Proven expertise in translational cancer research, ideally bridging pre‑clinical and clinical approaches.
• Strong publication record and history 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 (welcome).
• Fluency in written and spoken English.

Application requirements

• CV
• List of publications
• Up to 5‑page research statement summarizing current/past research accomplishments and outlining a 6‑year research programme.
• Contact information of current supervisor and two/three (international) senior scientists willing to provide letters of support.

Benefits

• Core funding for six years.
• 30 days of vacation per year.
• Possibility of mobile work and part‑time work.
• Comprehensive further training programme, mentoring and leadership opportunities.
• Administrative support for extramural grant applications (e.g., ERC, DFG, BMBF).
• Flexible working hours.
• Family‑friendly working environment.
• Subsidised German train ticket.

Contact

Prof. Dr. med. Matthias Theobald
Phone: [phone]

Position limited to 6 years.

Application deadline

07.01.2026

Applications by email cannot be accepted. Please note that we cannot return applications submitted by post.

Equal opportunities

We are convinced that an innovative research and working environment thrives on the diversity of its employees. 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.

Other notices

Notice: We are subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). All employees must provide proof of immunity against measles.