The
Division of Oncology
is looking for a
Tenure Track Professor of Systems Biology of Cancer and Functional Therapeutics
Identification number: KA-ONKO-2026-003641
Application time:
03/19/2026
We are seeking an outstanding researcher with strong potential to establish an internationally visible and competitive research program in the field of systems biology of cancer in the university’s strategic focus area of cancer research. The emphasis is on developing tools and generating high-quality data through functional genetic screening approaches with the aim of enabling novel therapeutic strategies.
The position will be a joint appointment to the Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology and the Clinical Department of Oncology, both of which have an excellent track record in precision oncology. This integrated tenure track professorship will capitalize on a highly translational clinical precision oncology platform, providing an exceptional framework for applying systems-level approaches in molecular cancer research directly to patient-derived biospecimens. Genome-wide functional screening approaches are employed to uncover cancer-specific vulnerabilities and to identify previously unknown or unconventional therapeutic targets. Supported by the extensive research infrastructure established at the Medical University of Graz, including precision oncology infrastructure set up with the Institute of Human Genetics, the professorship will be reinforced by the interdisciplinary expertise and scientific and technical staff of both institutions as well as the University Comprehensive Cancer Center Graz. Access to a molecular tumor board, the large collection of human cancer specimens at Biobank Graz, established patient-derived organoid platforms, and in vivo model systems provide a strong foundation for innovative and impactful research. The collaborative local scientific community ensures access to extensive national and international academic and industrial networks.
The initial appointment is limited to six years. After the conclusion of a qualification agreement, the career advancement goal is to transfer to a tenured position as an associate professor (tenure track professor pursuant to § 99 para. 5 and 6 of the Universities Act). If the candidate demonstrates outstanding and remarkable achievements, the qualification agreement may be fulfilled more quickly.
Core duties and responsibilities:
- Conducting cutting-edge research in the field of systems biology of cancer to enable novel therapeutic strategies with a focus on the molecular mechanisms of cancer cell survival
- Producing high-quality scientific publications in the field of molecular cancer research
- Leading an internationally recognized research group and acquiring third-party funding
- Networking through national and international research collaborations
- Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, supervising diploma and doctoral students and mentoring and promoting young researchers
- Supporting scientific and public outreach in the research area
Successful candidates must have the following qualifications:
- PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in molecular biology or a related field
- Profound research expertise in the field of molecular cancer biology
- Proven experience in functional genetic screening approaches in the context of cancer, preferably cancer metabolism
- Proven track record of high-quality publications as the lead author
- Peer-reviewed research grants or other third-party funding as a lead or principal investigator
- Previous experience in teaching and/or (co)supervising pre- and postgraduate students
- Postdoctoral research abroad or at a different institution than where the PhD was completed
- High level of proficiency in both written and spoken English (equivalent to proficiency level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
- Within three years of employment: Proficiency in German sufficient for teaching at the Medical University of Graz and participating in university committees (equivalent to proficiency level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
The ideal candidate has the following profile:
- Experience in analyzing complex biological data sets
- Team player able to motivate colleagues and students
- Responsible work habits and problem-solving skills
- Empathy as well as communication and social skills
- Management and leadership skills
- Gender and diversity skills
Entry date:
06/01/2026
limited to 6 years
initially limited to 6 years, becoming a tenured position when the qualification agreement is met
Level of employment: 100%
Classification in employment group
A2
according to the collective agreement for university employees.
Application: The Medical University of Graz invites all applicants to submit their application online by March 19, 2026.
Please note that we can only consider complete applications that have been received by the application deadline. A list of the documents to be submitted can be found here.
Statutory information: The minimum remuneration is based on the collective agreement for university employees (KV § 49.2).
Scheduled date for job interview: May 8, 2026 at the Medical University of Graz
The Medical University of Graz is committed to increasing the proportion of women in management positions at universities in Austria and encourages qualified women to apply. Among applicants with equal qualifications, female applicants will be given priority. We also welcome applications from qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage them to apply.
Apply now
Due to technical conditions, there may be restrictions on online applications. If you cannot access the application form using "Apply Now", please send your application documents to bewerbung@medunigraz.at.
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