Junior Research Groups

The DKFZ recruits promising early-career scientists each year to establish independent research groups and strengthen the next generation of leaders in cancer research. This recruitment is conducted through an international symposium where selected postdoctoral researchers present their independent scientific vision. Tenure-track research group leaders receive core funding and are typically evaluated by an international expert committee after six years of independent research.

To further strengthen its translational research goals, the DKFZ has launched an innovative program supporting a growing number of Junior Clinical Cooperation Units (CCUs). These units provide clinically active researchers with financial resources and protected research time to establish a translationally focused research group. Since 2021, these CCUs have enabled scientific independence and fostered the development of experienced clinician-scientists before they assume leadership roles in clinical practice. Currently, several Junior Clinical Cooperation Units at the DKFZ work closely with specific programs at the University Hospitals in Heidelberg and Mannheim, including medical oncology, surgery, neurology, and imaging.

NEW: Head of an Independent Junior Research Group in Translational Gynecologic Cancer Research

We are currently recruiting an ambitious early-career researcher to establish an independent junior research group in translational gynecologic cancer research with a focus on ovarian and endometrial cancer.

The scientific symposium with individual interviews will take place in Heidelberg in October 2026.

Application deadline: May 17, 2026.
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Head of an independent Junior Research Group (Tenure-Track)

Once a year we look for a creative, ambitious, and collaborative early-career researcher to establish and lead an independent junior research group, with the position offered on a tenure-track basis, to pursue cutting-edge questions in any of our research topics: Cell and Tumor Biology, Functional and Structural Genomics, Epidemiology, Public Health, Prevention and Survivorship, Immunology, Infection & Cancer and Imaging and Radiology (www.dkfz.de/en/research). Participation in cross-cutting programs focused on biomedical engineering and technology development, cancer prevention, digital oncology, and translational approaches is also welcomed. A successful applicant will have an outstanding postdoctoral track record and strong background in basic tumor biology and/or preclinical cancer research.  

The scientific symposium with individual interviews takes place in Heidelberg.

The next position is expected to be advertised in early May 2026.