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

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 for the next possible date a The DKFZ and the DKTK partner site Frankfurt/Mainz, especially the Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology with its rich and outstanding expertise in cellular therapy, the Institute for Immunology, the Helmholtz-Institute for Translational Oncology Mainz (HI-TRON Mainz), a Helmholtz-Institute of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the Institute for Transfusion Medicine, and the Institute for Molecular Biology (IMB) provide an outstanding, dynamic, and vibrant research environment focused on interdisciplinary team science and including access to numerous state-of-the-art technological platforms/core facilities, locally and DKTK-wide.DKTK conducts transformative translational cancer research, educates the next generation of translation-oriented researchers, and establishes strong pipelines towards clinical application and economic innovation. Further information can be found at We seek to appoint 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 profilePhD in life or data sciences and/or MD in medicineExcellent 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 approachesStrong publication record and history of ambitious acquisition of competitive third-party funding, appropriate to career stageLeadership skills, diversity competency, and commitment to mentoring junior scientists and studentsVision for an innovative, internationally competitive research programStrong motivation to collaborate with other DKTK sites and within interdisciplinary networksExperience in managing interdisciplinary research projectsIndependent, proactive working style, with a strong sense of responsibilityWillingness to engage in teaching and academic training activities is welcomeFluency in written and spoken EnglishTo apply for this position, your applications should include:CVList of publicationsUp to 5-page research statement summarizing current/past research accomplishments and outlining a 6-year research program