CALL NOW OPEN: DKFZ Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026

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DKFZ Postdoctoral Fellowships

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 www.dkfz.de/en/karriere/international-postdoc-program/your-postdoc-at-dkfz/dkfz-postdoctoral-fellowships

Interdisciplinary projects are available spanning the following areas of cancer research:

Curious about joining?

Apply now

Application deadline: 08.09.2026

We support and value diversity and encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented groups. If you require assistance during the application process, please contact postdoc@dkfz.de

DKFZ Cancer Research Academy
International Postdoc Program

German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)
Foundation under Public Law
Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
Management Board: Prof. Dr. med. Dr. h.c. Michael Baumann, Shalini Saxena (interim)

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