Cancer Research Academy

The DKFZ Cancer Research Academy (CRA) unites our academic training programs and promotes young scientists at the national and international level.

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Missi­on

The DKFZ Cancer Research Academy offers special programs to support outstanding research talent. In an international, diverse, and interdisciplinary environment, the brightest minds are trained and supported in cutting-edge cancer research.
To help them achieve scientific independence, the Academy offers its fellows customized and career-specific training and continuing education opportunities, including a strong network of national and international partners and DKFZ alumni.

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Heinrich F.C. Behr Stipends 2026/2027

Are you a medical student at Heidelberg University eager to explore research? The Behr Stipends, under the patronage of the DKFZ and Heidelberg University, offer a one-year funded research opportunity for outstanding students of human medicine. Join a lab at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) to work on your doctoral (Dr. med.) thesis in a world-class environment. Apply by 30 August 2026 and start your career in translational cancer research today!
Apply now!

Our programs

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Major Cancer Biology (MSc)

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DKFZ International PhD Program

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Clinician Scientist Program

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International Postdoc Program

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Junior Research Groups

Mailing list

Are you interested in receiving information about open positions within our programs? Subscribe to our mailing list to never miss an application call from the DKFZ Cancer Research Academy!
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Richtzenhain Doctoral Prize 2025

The Richtzenhain Doctoral Prize honors outstanding doctoral dissertations in cancer research completed at Heidelberg University or affiliated institutes. Funded by the Walther and Christine Richtzenhain Foundation and awarded by the DKFZ, up to five €2,000 prizes are given every two years. Eligible applicants are doctoral students (Dr. rer. nat., Dr. sc. hum., Dr. med., or Dr.-Ing.) whose cancer research projects were completed with thesis defenses held between 15 July 2023 and 15 July 2025.
Apply now!

Get in touch with us

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Dr. Katharina Schuh

Coordination Cancer Research Academy
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Prof. Dr. Duncan Odom

Director Cancer Research Academy
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