PhD Student Position in Epidemiology (m/w/d)

„Research for a life without cancer“ is our mission at the
German Cancer Research Center. We investigate how cancer develops, identify
cancer risk factors and look for new cancer prevention strategies. We develop
new methods with which tumors can be diagnosed more precisely and cancer
patients can be treated more successfully. Every contribution counts –
whether in research, administration or infrastructure. This is what makes our
daily work so meaningful and exciting.

From April 2025, our Department of Cancer Epidemiology is offering a

PhD Student Position in Epidemiology

Reference number: 2024-0349

* Heidelberg
* Full-time
* Cancer Epidemiology
The Department of Cancer Epidemiology at the German Cancer Research Center
(DKFZ) studies the causes of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic
disease outcomes in the general population, with a special focus on the role of
lifestyle and related metabolic risk factors, using prospective cohort studies.
In context of these prospective studies – notably, the EPIC cohort
(European Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) – we are looking for
a highly motivated PhD student for a project entitled “Persistent
organic pollutants (POPs) and hormone-sensitive obesity-related cancers”
starting in April 2025. Funding [IIG_FULL_2024_028] was obtained from Wereld
Kanker Onderzoek Fonds (WKOF), funded as part of the World Cancer Research Fund
International grant program.

The aim of this project is to evaluate the association of POPs with
hormone-sensitive obesity-related cancers using case-control studies nested
within the EPIC cohort on endometrial and postmenopausal breast cancers which
will be complemented by a systematic review process to evaluate and synthesize
the literature to date.

We also aim to identify dietary, anthropometric, and other factors that may
impact circulating POP concentrations to orient future targeted prevention
strategies.

Your Tasks

The PhD student will be responsible for carrying out systematic literature
reviews and meta-analyses, data curation and preparation (including
questionnaire and biomarker data generated for the project), data analysis,
interpretation and dissemination of the results internationally (i.e.,
publications, conference presentations).

Your Profile

* Master’s degree in epidemiology, public health or biostatistics (or related
discipline)
* Very good knowledge of statistics and epidemiological data analysis
* Programming skills with SAS and/or R
* Previous experience in epidemiological research and publication writing is
an asset
* Excellent command of written and oral English, knowledge of German is not
mandatory
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team
* Enthusiasm for epidemiological research in an international team
Applications should include contact details of at least two referees.

We Offer

* Excellent framework conditions: state-of-the-art equipment and
oppor­tunities for inter­national networking at the highest level
* Access to international research networks
* Doctoral salary with the usual social 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 Germany job ticket
* Unleash your full potential: targeted training and mentoring through the
DKFZ International PhD Program and DKFZ Career Service
* Our Corporate Health Manage­ment Program offers a holistic approach to
your well-being
Contact:
Dr. Charlotte Le Cornet
Phone: +49 6221 42-2350

The position is initially limited to 3 years.

Are you interested?

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

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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www.dkfz.de