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.

The DKFZ Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medicine Mannheim (UMM) was established in 2019 in the frame of a partnership between the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, the University Medical Center Mannheim, and the Medical Faculty Mannheim of Heidelberg University with generous support from the Hector Foundation II. The aim is to carry out excellent translational cancer research in the fields of precision oncology, cancer prevention, early detection, and survivorship.

The newly established Division of Cancer Survivorship & Psychological Resilience within the DKFZ Hector Cancer Institute is dedicated to identifying neuropsychological resilience mechanisms in the general population and among cancer survivors, as well as developing effective and innovative prevention and intervention measures to strengthen mental health, particularly in cancer patients. We combine experimental neuropsychological methods and large-scale cohort studies to advance mechanistic resilience research in the field of cancer survivorship.

To strengthen the team in the Division of Cancer Survivorship & Psychological Resilience, we are seeking as of February 2026 a

Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantitative Psychology / Data Science in Psychology

Reference number: 2025-0319

• Heidelberg, Mannheim
• Full-time
• Cancer Survivorship and Psychological Resilience

Your Tasks

The successful candidate will use advanced quantitative methods to contribute to innovations in modeling psychological resilience among cancer survivors and populations at risk.

Your tasks will include in detail:

• Design and lead method development and statistical modelling in resilience assessment (e.g., dynamic/latent-variable models, Bayesian hierarchical models, causal inference, time-series analysis, cognitive modelling)
• Build robust, reproducible data handling and analysis workflows in R and/or Python; author reusable packages and pipelines
• Collaborate across DKFZ programs; co-supervise students; contribute to grant applications
• Publish in high-impact journals and present at international conferences
• Provide workshops and training for the research team in new analytic approaches

Your Profile

• Applicants must hold a PhD degree in quantitative psychology, psychological methods, cognitive science, data science, applied statistics, psychometrics or a related field.
• We invite applications from individuals with a strong quantitative background, extensive experience with scientific coding in R and/or Python, and prior experience in applying quantitative methods and modelling to real-world questions in domains such as clinical or health psychology.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills and proficiency in English are mandatory. Proficiency in German is desirable.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit the following documents as a single PDF file via our online application tool:

• Cover letter (1–2 pages) outlining your fit
• CV with publications and links to code/software (if available)
• Up to 3 representative papers or preprints (methods and/or applied)
• Contact details of 2–3 academic referees

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. occupational pension plan and capital-forming payments
• 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 Germany job ticket
• Our Corporate Health Manage­ment Program offers a holistic approach to your well-being
• Develop your full potential: access to the DKFZ International Postdoc Program and DKFZ Career Service with targeted offers for your personal development to further develop your talents

Contact:
Prof. Dr. Michele Wessa
Phone: +49 (0)6221/42-4806

The position is limited to 3 years, with the possibility of prolongation.

Application Deadline: 08.01.2026

Applications by e-mail cannot be accepted.
Please also note that we cannot return applications submitted by post.

Are you interested?

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

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.

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