DKFZ Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026

SHAPE THE FUTURE OF CANCER RESEARCH!

Apply for a DKFZ Postdoctoral Fellowship!

The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) invites outstanding early-career scientists from around the world to apply for one of its prestigious DKFZ Postdoctoral Fellowships.

The fellowship offers exceptional researchers the opportunity to launch the next stage of their scientific careers at Germany’s largest biomedical research institution. With more than 100 research divisions, DKFZ provides a unique environment that brings together experts in basic, computational, translational, epidemiological, and cancer prevention research. This breadth of expertise creates outstanding opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific discovery.

At DKFZ, postdoctoral researchers benefit from an international and collaborative research environment, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and access to world-class scientific expertise. Fellows are encouraged to pursue ambitious research questions while developing the skills and network needed for a successful independent research career.

A Prestigious Fellowship Program

The DKFZ Postdoctoral Fellowships represent one of the most prestigious and competitive recruitment programs of the DKFZ Cancer Research Academy.

In 2026, up to seven fellowships will be awarded to outstanding researchers with demonstrated scientific excellence and the potential to become future leaders in cancer research.

Successful applicants receive a two-year full-time employment contract (TV-L E13) and the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in one of Europe’s leading cancer research centers. In addition to their research, postdocs benefit from a comprehensive program of professional development, mentoring, scientific exchange, and networking designed to support the transition to research independence.

Eligibility:

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• They must hold (or be expected to obtain) a qualification equivalent to a PhD. If the degree is expected after the submission deadline, the doctoral thesis must be submitted by October 31, 2026.
• The PhD degree must have been awarded no more than two years before the application deadline.
• They must demonstrate outstanding research achievements through scientific publications.
• External applicants are particularly encouraged to apply. Current DKFZ employees are only eligible to apply if they joined DKFZ after June 1, 2026.
• Application:

  Please submit your application in English as one PDF file via the online application portal (link below). Only applications submitted through the official application portal will be considered.

  The application must include:

  • Completed application form (available here)
  • A list of up to 5 preferred DKFZ laboratories/groups (please consult the recruiting groups in the research profile section of our website)
  • Curriculum vitae, including a list of publications
  • PhD degree certificates (including transcripts and translations, where applicable) or proof that the doctoral thesis has been submitted
  • Two letters of recommendation

  Please find further information on https://www.dkfz.de/en/karriere/international-postdoc-program/your-postdoc-at-dkfz/dkfz-postdoctoral-fellowships.

   

  Take the next step in your scientific career and join a community dedicated to advancing cancer research. We look forward to receiving your application.

  Application Deadline: September 8, 2026

  Contact:
  Dr. Mariana Schulte-Sasse
  Phone: +49 6221/42-1696

  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.

  Notice: We are subject to the regulations of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Therefore, all our employees must provide proof of immunity against measles.

  Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum
  Im Neuenheimer Feld 280 | 69120 Heidelberg | Germany
  www.dkfz.de/en