The Center for Molecular Biology of Heidelberg University (ZMBH) and the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung (CZS) Center for Synthetic Genomics (CZS Center SynGen) invite applications for
- PROFESSORSHIP (W3) in Molecular Biology with a focus on BIOLOGICAL ENGINEERING (tenured) (f/m/d)
- PROFESSORSHIP (W3) in Microbiology with a focus on SYNTHETIC MICROBIOLOGY (tenured) (f/m/d)
- CZS Junior Research Group Leader on SYNTHETIC GENOMICS (f/m/d)
- Head (E14) of the new Synthetic DNA Accelerator Lab of the CZS Center (5 years contract, tenure option) (f/m/d)
Environment: The Ruperto Carola University in Heidelberg is the oldest university in today′s Germany and one of Europe′s leading research institutions. The University has recently established a new Faculty of Engineering Sciences at the interface of material science, molecular biotechnology and computational science. The Neuenheimer Feld Campus of the Heidelberg University is the largest campus for natural and life sciences in Germany. It harbors the buildings of the science faculties and institutes including the ZMBH, the medical school, the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ).
Mission: The ZMBH has a long tradition of conducting cutting-edge research in molecular and cell biology, as well as biomedicine. In the years to come, we anticipate rapid advancements and new technologies in the fields of synthetic DNA, artificial intelligence (AI), and all natural sciences. These advancements will collectively drive progress in synthetic and molecular biology, presenting entirely new possibilities for biomedicine, bioengineering, and biomanufacturing. With the CZS Center SynGen Initiative the ZMBH is on a mission to contribute to these developments with fundamental, theoretical or applied research towards programmable biology.
The CZS Center SynGen: The SynGen Center supported by the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung promotes research and development at the participating Universities in Heidelberg, Karlsruhe and Mainz to develop an internationally visible research focus on Synthetic Genomics. The CZS Center SynGen at Heidelberg University will consist of a fully funded junior research group, the Synthetic DNA accelerator lab and two professorships (W3), that will be dedicated to biological engineering and synthetic microbiology. Starting at the ZMBH, the four newly recruited groups will move upon completion in 2026/2027 to the new Heidelberg For Life (H4L) building, located next to the Max Planck Institute for Medical research at the Heidelberg Life Science campus.
Applicants: We seek individuals with an outstanding scientific background which demonstrates their passion for driving theory, research and technology in biological engineering and/or synthetic biology/genomics. Prospective candidates should exhibit a strong interest in both teaching and supporting early-career scientists, and possess the ability to fruitfully interact with the Heidelberg and the CZS Center SynGen research and biotechnology community and network initiatives in Karlsruhe and Mainz.
Positions offered:
Professorship in Molecular Biology with focus on Biological Engineering (tenured)
We offer a full professorship (W3) for an experienced internationally reputed scientist or a very successful junior group leader in the field of biological engineering at the molecular/cellular/organismal level. The professor will be a member of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences and additionally affiliated with the Faculty of Biosciences. To be successful, the candidate needs to provide proof of a combination of research excellence, teaching proficiency, leadership abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of the field. An active role in academic self-government of the university is expected.
The appointment requires a university degree and (in accordance with Article 47, paragraph 2 of the Higher Education Law of the state of Baden-Württemberg) a Habilitation, a successfully evaluated junior professorship or equivalent qualifications
Professorship in Microbiology with focus on Synthetic Microbiology (tenured)
We offer a full professorship (W3) in microbiology with an emphasis on synthetic and engineering approaches. We especially encourage early-stage independent researchers to apply, e.g., highly accomplished individuals who are currently completing a successful group leader research phase. The professor will be a member of the Faculty of Biosciences and additionally affiliated with the Faculty of Engineering Sciences. Teaching courses and practical classes in microbiology are a prerequisite. An active role in academic self-government of the university is expected.
The appointment requires a university degree and (in accordance with Article 47, paragraph 2 of the Higher Education Law of the state of Baden-Württemberg) a Habilitation, a successfully evaluated junior professorship or equivalent qualifications
CZS Junior Research Group (E14/E15, 5+4 years term)
We offer the position of an independent junior research group for a young researcher following a short and highly successful postdoc in synthetic biology, synthetic genomics or any other field related to this topic including computational/AI approaches or instrument/technology development. An attractive start up package and running budget are offered, and we expect and support the successful applicant in acquiring additional funds to develop a strong and unique research focus.
Head of CZS Center Synthetic DNA accelerator lab (E14/E15, tenure option)
The CZS Center SynGen′s Synthetic DNA Accelerator Lab aims to bolster synthetic genomics research by providing synthetic DNA products. The successful candidate will be a proven leader in synthetic DNA design, molecular biology, and script development for data analysis. In addition to providing reliable high quality services and managing two engineer positions and investment funds, the role involves engaging in collaborative research projects to advance DNA product technologies. Competitive funding is available for these projects and participation in new funding initiatives will be offered. A passion for teaching is key, as the role involves mentoring the next generation of scientists. The lab is integrated into a network of core technology platforms, offering access to various technologies and industry contacts.
The application package should include a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a list of current research support, a summary of teaching experience, a research summary, an outline of future research interests. For junior group leader and Head of CZS Center Synthetic DNA lab applications we additionally request a list with 3 or more referees, including contact information. Please state clearly, for which of the positions you are applying.
Applications should be sent no later than 31.01.2024 by e-mail to Prof. Dr. E. Schiebel, Director of the ZMBH: direktor@zmbh.uni-heidelberg.de (Subject: Application CZS Center for Synthetic Genomics).
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. Information on job advertisements and the collection of personal data is available at www.uni-heidelberg.de/en/job-market.
