Research Software Engineer

About The Company The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) is one of Europe's largest and most renowned cancer research institutions. Dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer, DKFZ brings together world-class scientists, clinicians, and researchers committed to research for a life without cancer. The center's mission is to investigate the biological mechanisms underlying cancer development, identify risk factors, and develop innovative strategies for early detection and effective therapies. DKFZ's multidisciplinary approach encompasses basic research, translational studies, and clinical applications, fostering a collaborative environment that drives scientific breakthroughs and improves patient outcomes. The institution also emphasizes infrastructure development and data management to support cutting-edge research initiatives across various disciplines. About The Role We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Software Engineer / Software Developer specializing in Imaging and Spatial Omics Data to join our dynamic team at the Single-cell Open Lab within DKFZ. Starting from December 2026, this full-time position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the ID3:bio 2.0 project, a DFG-funded initiative aimed at enhancing data management and interoperability in spatial omics and imaging research. You will work within the Omics IT and Data Management Core Facility (ODCF) and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams comprising bioinformaticians, system administrators, wet lab scientists, and software developers. Your primary focus will be on developing and extending software platforms and workflows that facilitate FAIR data principles—making research data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable. This role provides a unique chance to influence the development of standards, tools, and infrastructure that underpin innovative cancer research and biological discovery. Qualifications The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in computer science, software engineering, or a related field, with substantial experience in software development. A Master’s degree or equivalent qualification is required, along with professional proficiency in Kotlin (used in our GUIDE platform) or Java. Candidates should also demonstrate proficiency in at least one additional programming language such as Python or JavaScript. Experience with system administration, containerization, cloud technologies, and Linux environments is essential. A genuine interest in biological data, combined with curiosity and willingness to learn, is highly valued—even if prior biological training is not mandatory. Excellent problem-solving skills, the ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams, and the capacity to communicate complex technical workflows to non-specialists are critical. Fluency in English is required, both written and spoken. Responsibilities Your role will involve developing, extending, and maintaining software solutions that facilitate data annotation, integration, and management for spatial omics and imaging data. Key responsibilities include: Developing and enhancing the GUIDE metadata platform, a Kotlin-based application, to annotate metadata and import non-sequencing data types into the ODCF infrastructure.Designing and implementing integration between the OMERO imaging platform and genomic data systems (OTP) within the infrastructure.Creating and managing user and permission systems across imaging and genomics platforms to ensure secure and efficient data access.Implementing metadata schemas and packaging formats such as RO-Crate to standardize spatial data management.Building tools to collect, organize, and validate research metadata and datasets, ensuring compliance with FAIR principles.Participating in hackathons, workshops, and training sessions to promote best practices and user adoption of developed tools.Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex technical challenges, ensuring seamless integration and functionality of data workflows. Benefits Joining DKFZ offers numerous benefits designed to support your professional growth and personal well-being. You will work in an excellent research environment equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for international collaboration. The position includes 30 days of vacation annually, flexible working hours, and options for mobile and part-time work arrangements. Remuneration is in accordance with the TV-L pay scale, supplemented by occupational pension plans and capital-forming payments. DKFZ promotes a family-friendly workplace and provides a sustainable travel subsidy via the Germany job ticket. The center also invests in your development through targeted training programs and offers a comprehensive health management initiative aimed at supporting your overall well-being. Equal Opportunity DKFZ is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse working environment. We welcome applications from talented individuals regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical ability, religion, or age. We particularly encourage people with disabilities to apply and will consider them preferentially if they meet the qualifications. Our organization values equality and strives to create a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute to our shared mission of cancer research excellence. We adhere to all relevant regulations, including the Infection Protection Act (IfSG), requiring proof of immunity against measles for all employees.