Biologist as Postdoc (m/f/d)

Join to apply for the Biologist as Postdoc (m/f/d) role at DKFZ German Cancer Research Center

The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) is one of Europe’s largest cancer research centers. “Research for a life without cancer" is the mission of our world‑class scientists and all our team members. The DKFZ is a place where the brightest minds pursue bold ideas and seek answers to pioneering scientific questions through collaboration, innovation, and exploration across many disciplines. We provide a dynamic environment which empowers excellence with state‑of‑the‑art technologies, cutting‑edge infrastructure, and a global scientific network. Contribute your knowledge, vision, and dedication to create a space where scientific discovery in cancer research is transformed into benefits for human health.

Division

The Division of Molecular Embryology (headed by Prof. Dr. Christof Niehrs) is seeking as of June 2026 a Postdoctoral Researcher – Left‑Right Asymmetry in Xenopus and Mouse Development (Reference number: 2025‑0328). Position: Heidelberg, Full‑time, Molecular Embryology.

Research Focus

Vertebrate organ laterality relies on cilia‑driven leftward flow in the left‑right organizer (LRO). Defects in this process are a major cause of laterality disorders and are tightly linked to congenital heart defects, where incorrect left‑right patterning can lead to abnormal cardiac looping, malpositioning and complex structural malformations. Building on our recent work identifying R‑Spondin 2 (Rspo2) as a flow‑mediated, sinistralizing signal in the Xenopus LRO, we are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to extend and mechanistically deepen these discoveries.

Key Publications

• Lee H, Camuto CM, Niehrs C. R‑Spondin 2 governs Xenopus left‑right body axis formation by establishing an FGF signaling gradient. Nat Commun (2024). PMID: .
• Niehrs C, Zapparoli E, Lee H. ‘Three signals – three body axes’ as patterning principle in bilaterians. Cells Dev (2024). PMID: .

Your Tasks

You will investigate how extracellular signals are shaped by cilia‑driven flow to break symmetry and how FGF signaling dynamics and receptor trafficking encode the left‑right vector. Depending on your profile, the project can emphasize Xenopus or mouse embryology/embryoid research. Besides standard molecular embryology techniques, the project will involve advanced imaging, transcriptomics, and embryoid culture.

Your Profile

Applicants should hold a PhD in developmental biology and have hands‑on experience with vertebrate embryology. The laboratory is English‑speaking; very good English skills are expected.

How to Apply

Send your cover letter, list of publications and details of two references via our online application tool. Cover letter should state research and career interests, availability date. Incomplete applications will not be considered or acknowledged. Questions may be addressed to

We Offer

• Excellent framework conditions: state‑of‑the‑art equipment and opportunities for international networking at the highest level
• Remuneration according to TV‑L incl. company pension scheme and capital‑forming benefits
• 30 days of vacation per year
• Flexible working hours
• Possibility of mobile work and part‑time work
• Family‑friendly working environment
• Sustainable travel to work: subsidized German job ticket
• Corporate Health Management Program offers a holistic approach to your well‑being
• Access to the DKFZ International Postdoc Program and DKFZ Career Service for personal development

Seniority level

• Internship

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Science