Chemist, Life Scientist - Division Head, Cancer Research (m/f/d)

• Lead and develop a research program focused on pediatric cancer drug discovery, with a strong emphasis on translational applications.
• Secure competitive external funding and develop high-impact, multidisciplinary research projects.
• Foster collaborations with academic, clinical, and industry partners within DKFZ, KiTZ, DKTK, and NCT.
• Supervise and mentor a diverse team of scientists, including postdoctoral fellows and graduate students from different disciplines.

The successful candidate will benefit from access to the state-of-the-art infrastructure of the DKFZ, including core facilities and research platforms as well as our non-for-profit spin-off pediatric drug testing platform www.itccp4.com supporting drug discovery research as well as a co-affiliation with Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations. The division will be associated with the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK, https://dktk.dkfz.de/en) and with the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT, https://nct.dkfz.de/), which have wide expertise in drug discovery, drug development, and translational research. Access to pediatric oncology, genomics, drug testing and modeling experts at KiTZ across all major entities, will foster creating a very collaborative and dynamic research environment. Furthermore, translational pipelines including IIT development and coordination within the KiTZ are existing and accessible (https://www.kitz-heidelberg.de/en/clinical-studies/kitz-clinical-trial-unit). An existing bioinformatics group (https://www.kitz-heidelberg.de/en/research/research-groups/cns-/-brain-tumors/group-clinical-bioinformatics) will be embedded within the new division, providing computational expertise and support for AI-based drug discovery efforts.

• A PhD, MD, or equivalent degree in life science such as medicinal chemistry, pharmacology or translational cancer research.
• An internationally recognized track record of excellence in drug discovery (academia, biotech and/or industry) or related fields.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and success in securing competitive external funding or successfully working in biotech or industry.
• A commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and innovative research environment.
• Evidence of effective and modern teaching and further education experience.
• The applicant is expected to have high academic qualifications (habilitation) or equivalent qualifications.

You can look forward to:

• A tenured position at the level of a DKFZ Division Head (W3 remuneration equivalent).
• A later public advertisement for applications for a W3 professorship in this field as part of a joint appointment with a university can be discussed in due time.
• Attractive core funding and access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources as well as competitive internal funding opportunities of the DKFZ and the Helmholtz Association.
• Integration into DKFZ’s and KiTZ’s vibrant research community, with extensive opportunities for translational and clinical collaborations.

Why Join Us?

Pediatric cancers are biologically distinct from adult cancers, requiring innovative therapeutic strategies. Given the small market size and limited commercial incentives, academic-driven research is essential to develop effective treatments. At KiTZ and DKFZ, you will work alongside world-renowned experts in clinical, preclinical, and fundamental scientific research, contributing to a dynamic and collaborative environment. Your work will be instrumental in uniting diverse scientific disciplines to advance pediatric cancer treatment through groundbreaking discoveries, translational research and clinical trials.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

• A cover letter detailing their research vision and leadership experience.
• A curriculum vitae, including a complete list of publications and external funding.
• A concise research plan for the first 5 years also including a summary of previous work, collaborations and wider outlook (maximum 5 pages).
• Contact information for at least three academic (or industry/biotech) referees.

Join us at DKFZ and KiTZ to drive innovation in pediatric cancer drug discovery and make a lasting impact on children’s lives.

• A highly supportive research environment at the DKFZ, the National Cancer Prevention Center (NCPC) and the wider scientific community including Heidelberg University as well as opportunities for national and international networking at the highest level
• Campus with modern state-of-the-art infrastructure and core facilities
• Compensation according to German W3 score equivalent
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Possibility of mobile work and part-time work
• Family-friendly working environment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket
• Administrative support for extramural grant application
• Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being