The Cluster of Excellence SynthImmune, the Center for Molecular Biology of Heidelberg University (ZMBH), and the Faculty of Biosciences invite applications for the above position to be filled at the earliest possible date.
Research Profile
We seek an outstanding early-career scientist with a visionary research program in bottom-up synthetic biology and synthetic cell design, including experimental and theoretical approaches. The successful candidate will be an integral part of the Cluster of Excellence “SynthImmune,” which aims to engineer synthetic systems to interface with, modulate, or mimic the immune system.
We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Bottom-up assembly of synthetic cells or organelles.
- Directed evolution of molecular components or pathways.
- DNA/RNA nanotechnology for structural or regulatory applications.
- Lipid vesicles and membrane engineering.
- Synthetic biology interfaces with immunology.
- Molecular dynamics and theory approaches.
Your Profile
The candidate should demonstrate a strong record of scientific excellence, reflected in high-impact publications and international recognition. Applicants are expected to submit a compelling research proposal with the potential to establish a successful independent career and secure competitive external funding. The successful candidate will be a member of the Faculty of Biosciences. We offer a full salary package (E15 level), core funding for a small research team, and a start-up grant.
Environment
Heidelberg University is an internationally renowned institution for fundamental research and teaching. The ZMBH is a renowned international research center specializing in fundamental research in molecular and cell biology. Located on one of the largest life science campuses in Europe, interconnected through the Health + Life Science Alliance, the ZMBH hosts up to 15 independent research groups.
We offer an outstanding international research environment, enriched by numerous university institutes and research centers. Heidelberg University offers an excellent core facility infrastructure, including services such as protein analytics, advanced light microscopy, and flow cytometry, as well as a mechanical workshop and centralized administrative support hosted at the ZMBH.
Application Process
Your application should include a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a list of current research support, a summary of teaching experience, a research summary, and a forward-looking research proposal. Questions concerning the position can be addressed to Prof. Dr. Kerstin Göpfrich (k.goepfrich@zmbh.uni-heidelberg.de).
Applications should be submitted via our online portal https://application.synthimmune.de by September 15th, 2026.
Heidelberg University stands for equal opportunities and diversity. Qualified female candidates are especially invited to apply. Persons with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are equally qualified.