The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) in Heidelberg is inviting applications for a International PhD Position in Cancer Breaksome within the Junior Research Group “Brain Mosaicism and Tumorigenesis” led by Dr. Pei-Chi Wei. This position offers an exciting opportunity to explore the mechanisms of genome instability and replication stress in cancer using advanced multi-omics and sequencing technologies.

To be eligible for this PhD position, candidates must hold or be close to completing a Master’s degree in biology, bioinformatics, genetics, genomics, bioengineering, or a related field. Applicants should have a strong academic background, proficiency in English, and motivation for independent and collaborative research. Basic programming skills in R or Python and prior experience with omics data analysis are advantageous.

The German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) is the largest biomedical research institute in Germany, located in Heidelberg. It has over 3,000 employees, including more than 1,000 scientists who research cancer development, identify risk factors, and strive to find new strategies for prevention, more precise diagnosis, and improved treatment of cancer.

Application Deadline: 11 November 2025

Brief Description

• University or Organization: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)

• Department: Functional and Structural Genomics – Junior Research Group “Brain Mosaicism and Tumorigenesis”

• Course Level: PhD (Doctoral)

• Award: Doctoral salary with social benefits

• Access Mode: Online application portal

• Number of Awards: One (1)

• Nationality: Domestic and international

• The award can be taken in: Germany

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: Applicants from all countries are eligible to apply.

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for PhD studies in cancer genomics, functional genomics, bioinformatics, or related fields offered by the DKFZ.

• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Hold or be about to obtain a Master’s degree in biology, bioinformatics, genetics, genomics, bioengineering, or applied mathematics.

  • Demonstrate strong academic performance and research interest in genome biology or cancer research.

  • Have intermediate programming skills (R or Python) and prior experience analyzing omics datasets (for biology backgrounds).

  • For bioinformatics applicants: good performance in biology-related courses is expected.

  • Proficiency in English (both written and spoken).

  • Motivation, commitment, and ability to work independently and collaboratively.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit the following documents via the DKFZ online application portal (applications via email or post will not be accepted):

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Cover letter

• Academic transcripts

• Contact details of two references

For inquiries, contact:
Dr. Pei-Chi Wei
Phone: +49 6221/42-3251

Benefits

• Doctoral salary with standard social benefits

• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and international collaborations

• 30 days of annual vacation and flexible working arrangements

• Family-friendly and inclusive work environment

• Opportunities for mentoring and career development through the DKFZ International PhD Program

• Subsidized Germany job ticket for sustainable commuting

• Participation in corporate health and well-being programs.

Apply Now