Research Software Engineer / HIFIS Consultant | Research Software Engineer / HIFIS Consultant

Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum

Heidelberg, Neckar, Baden-Württemberg, Deutschland
Published Feb 9, 2026
Full-time
Fixed-term

Job Summary

The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) is seeking a highly motivated Research Software Engineer / HIFIS Consultant to join their interdisciplinary team, focusing on the intersection of medical image computing and sustainable research software engineering. This role involves working closely with the Helmholtz Federated IT Services (HIFIS) platform, applying best practices in software development to cutting-edge AI research projects, and providing specialized consultation across the Helmholtz centers. The consultant will be responsible for C++/Python development of methodologies for in-house tools like the Medical Imaging Interaction Toolkit (MITK), handling diverse medical and clinical data. Key responsibilities include advising research groups on modern software engineering practices such as CI/CD, automated testing, open-source governance, and sustainable workflows. Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant technical field or equivalent professional experience, solid expertise in modern software engineering, and strong communication skills to explain complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders. This position offers the chance to significantly contribute to cancer research through systematic image data analytics and high-quality software development.

Required Skills

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science, Scientific Computing, Medical Informatics, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related discipline; or equivalent professional experience in software engineering

Experience

  • Solid experience in modern, sustainable software engineering
  • Strong professional experience in at least one relevant programming language (modern C++ or Python)
  • Experience in consulting, mentoring, requirements analysis, or project management in software development projects (Desirable)
  • Interest and experience in research software engineering, open source, and scientific workflows (Desirable)

Languages

German (Basic)English (Fluent)

Additional

  • Proof of immunity against measles is required (due to German Infection Protection Act regulations); Position is initially limited to 2 years with the possibility of prolongation.