Research Associate (m/f/d): UNCAN-CONNECT

Research Associate (m/f/d) at the Section for Translational Surgical Oncology & Biobanking (Acting Head: Prof. Dr. Timo Gemoll), Department of Surgery, Campus Lübeck, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein & University of Lübeck

The position mentioned above is to be filled for a period of four years starting on September 1, 2025 (The position is initially limited until August 30, 2029, with the possibility of extension.)

The Section for Translational Surgical Oncology & Biobanking at the Department of Surgery focuses on research in molecular oncology with the aim of advancing personalized medicine. A key focus lies in the identification of innovative protein biomarkers to improve individualized diagnostics, therapy, prognosis, and follow-up care. The laboratory is equipped with a comprehensive range of instruments for molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and cell biology, and is an integral part of the University Cancer Center Schleswig-Holstein (UCCSH), currently in the application phase.

As part of the EU-funded project "UNCAN-CONNECT", which aims to optimize the diagnostics of pancreatic diseases, we are seeking a highly motivated scientist (m/f/d). The project is part of the development of a federated data platform for cancer research (UNCAN.eu). This platform will facilitate the integration of heterogeneous datasets, ensure reliable data management, and enable federated, AI-supported analyses. Within the funded use case "Proteomic Risk Model for Early Diagnosis of PDAC", the aim is to enhance and validate cancer biology knowledge through the identification of specific protein biomarkers.

The ideal candidate will strengthen and expand the team’s expertise in quantitative protein analytics with a focus on oncology. Responsibilities include the analysis of patient tissue and blood samples using artificial intelligence methods within the framework of the research consortium. Key duties also involve establishing and leading an independent research group, contributing to academic teaching, advancing OMICS capabilities in systems biology, and taking a leading role in the EU-funded project.

We Offer:

• The salary will be based on the German E13 TV-L scale, if the terms and conditions under collective bargaining law are fulfilled
• Full-time employment currently 38,5 hours/week
• A well-equipped position with substantial creative freedom and access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and high-end analytical technologies
• Opportunity to actively contribute to an international and interdisciplinary research project
• Support in establishing your own junior research group and applying for future funding initiatives

Key Responsibilities:

• Implementation and application of modern systems biology methods for integrative analysis of complex biological systems and development of innovative analytical approaches for protein characterization (e.g., mass spectrometry, multi-OMICS, biochip technologies)
• Scientific and strategic leadership of a large-scale EU-funded research project
• Establish and lead an independent research group in protein analytics / systems biology
• Supervision of early-career scientists and PhD students
• Interdisciplinary collaboration within the research department and with national and international partners and acquisition of additional third-party funding to ensure long-term establishment of the research group

Your Profile:

• PhD with an excellent scientific track record in biochemistry, molecular biology, bioanalytics, or related fields
• Proven research experience in OMICS analytics and systems biology approaches
• Willingness to actively participate in and coordinate a complex EU research project
• Strong initiative, leadership skills, and a team-oriented mindset
• Experience in acquiring external funding and in supervising scientific staff

We look forward to receiving your application by August 1, 2025, quoting our job advertisement number 26879.