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

DKFZ; Mainz; Vor Ort; EUR 62.000 - 75.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A prominent cancer research center in Mainz seeks a Junior Research Group Leader to develop innovative anti-cancer cellular immunotherapies. The successful candidate will foster an interdisciplinary research environment and engage in leading scientific community efforts at its partner site. Essential qualifications include a PhD or MD, significant research experience, and strong publication records. Experience in translational cancer research is necessary. Applicants are encouraged to contribute to teaching and mentoring activities.

Qualifikationen

• Excellent postdoctoral achievements (typically 3–6 years) in relevant research.
• Significant international research experience (typically 3 years).
• Proven expertise in translational cancer research, ideally bridging preclinical and clinical approaches.

Aufgaben

• Develop a fully translational research program targeting malignant diseases.
• Foster links to groups involved in cellular therapy research.
• Engage in teaching and mentoring junior scientists.

Kenntnisse

Translational cancer research

Leadership skills

Fluency in English

Interdisciplinary project management

Ausbildung

PhD in life or data sciences or MD in medicine

Jobbeschreibung

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 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 the next possible date 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 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