Research Technician*in Junior Research Group "Epithelium Microbiome Interactions"

Research Technician

 Research Technician

Reference number: 2024-0331

• Heidelberg
• Vollzeit
• Junior Research Group "Epithelium Microbiome Interactions"

“Research for a life without cancer" is our mission at the German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts – whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our daily work so meaningful and exciting.

Our junior research group studies how bacteria contribute to cancer development, metastasis and treatment response. Our team includes cancer researchers, tissue engineers, microbiologists, and bioinformaticians working together to help patients by deciphering the functional impacts of bacteria in human tumors. In our projects, we use organoid, organ chip and in vivo platforms to dissect the mechanisms of cancer-microbe interactions.

We are looking for a qualified and motivated research technician (BTA, MTA, Biologielaborant or similar) to support in vivo and in vitro experiments on several projects focused on the role of the microbiome in cancer development and progression in our group.

Your Tasks

The candidate will be trained in and responsible for the generation and maintenance of next-generation patient-derived in vitro culture models including organoids and isolated bacterial strains. The candidate will furthermore take care of research animals following standard operating procedures and according to animal welfare regulations. Additionally, the candidate will learn and apply a variety of laboratory techniques, such as DNA/RNA isolation and purification, protein extraction, genotyping by PCR, sample preparation for down-stream analyses, and flow cytometry.

Responsibilities will include:

• Generation and maintenance of human tumor organoid lines
• Derivation of patient-specific bacterial strains
• Support of standard laboratory techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation and FACS
• Collecting, handling/processing, and storing of biological samples (e.g. patient feces, blood, tissue) according to standard protocols.
• Regular monitoring of animal health and data recording (such as animal weight, behavior, vital signs, tumor growth).
• Performing basic procedures on animals (including weighing, oral gavaging, injections, dissection).
• Operating  sensitive equipment to analyze samples or substances, conducting tests and reporting results.
• Recording and analyzing data

Your Profile

Required:

• Education/training as lab technician or technical assistant (BTA, MTA, Biologielaborant:in) or comparable
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Reliability and flexibility
• Structured, independent, and careful way of working, e.g. ability to implement a variety of laboratory techniques using standard protocols after a thorough training by our scientific staff members
• Written and oral communication skills (German and English)

Advantageous:

• FELASA function A certificate (former FELASA B certificate)
• Proven working experience with animal models
• Hands-on working experience with cell culture (maintaining cell lines, establishing primary cell cultures) and/or molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA isolation, PCR) would be an advantage

We Offer

  Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level

  30 days of vacation per year

  Flexible working hours

  Remuneration according to TV-L incl. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments

  Possibility of part-time work

  Family-friendly working environment

  Sustainable travel to work: subsidized Germany job ticket

  Unleash your full potential: targeted offers for your personal development to further develop your talents

  Our Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being

Are you interested?

Then become part of the DKFZ and join us in contributing to a life without cancer!

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.

We are convinced that an innovative research and working environment thrives on the diversity of its employees. Therefore, we welcome applications from talented people, regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical ability, religion and age. People with severe disabilities are given preference if they have the same aptitude.