PhD Student in CNV-mediated Evolution of Pediatric Brain Tumors (m/w/d)

69115 Heidelberg

“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 Division of Pediatric Neurooncology is seeking for the next possible date a

PhD Student in CNV-mediated Evolution of Pediatric Brain Tumors

Reference number: 2025-0231

Heidelberg
Full-time
Pediatric Neurooncology

Recurrent copy-number alterations (CNAs) are a well-described feature of pediatric brain tumors such as high-grade glioma and medulloblastoma. Our recent findings indicate that subtype-specific CNAs play an essential role in tumorigenesis for many entities. Additionally, we have now found that somatic mouse models established in our groups closely mimic patient tumors and harbor recurrent CNAs that are syntenic to their human counterparts. The PhD student will use our robust mouse model platform to investigate the detailed molecular role of CNAs during solid tumor initiation, progression, and evolution.

Your Tasks

The PhD student will:

Establish when CNAs arise
Identify gene expression
Analyze chromatin accessibility changes in individual tumor cells over time using single-cell RNA and ATAC sequencing
Pinpoint the occurrence of CNAs on a genomic level
Analyze clonality and gene expression changes to identify putative functional consequences of early CNAs using single-cell whole-genome (ResolveOME) sequencing

Therefore, the project initially focuses on bioinformatic analyzes but offers the opportunity to work in the wet lab and with animal models at later stages. In addition to his/her own project, the PhD student would work in diverse collaborations with other students and postdocs.

Your Profile

Completed master's or diploma degree in biology, bioinformatics, or a related field
Background knowledge of tumor biology, particularly brain tumors, as well as experience in bioinformatics is beneficial (knowledge of Linux/Unix command line and R, experience in 1-2 programming languages, familiarity with job submission on computer clusters)
Highly motivated and passionate about developing meaningful projects independently within a supportive team environment
Excellent communication skills
Reliability, attention to detail
Thoughtfulness regarding experiments and colleagues is expected
Experience with molecular biology laboratory methods and a willingness to work with animal models is beneficial but is not essential
Fluency in verbal and written English

We Offer

Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
Access to international research networks
Doctoral salary with the usual social benefits
30 days of vacation per year
Flexible working hours
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. Marc Zuckermann
Telefon: +49 6221 42-4637

The position is initially limited to 3 years.

Application Deadline: 16.09.2025

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!

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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Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum | Im Neuenheimer Feld 280 | 69120 Heidelberg | www.dkfz.de

Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ)

69115 Heidelberg

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PhD Student in CNV-mediated Evolution of Pediatric Brain Tumors (m/w/d)

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 ...

Erstellt am 28.08.2025 von Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ)