Introduction
The INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials is an internationally leading center for interdisciplinary research on materials, and their exploitation in materials-based solutions for a sustainable world with increasing digitalization and medical needs. Our research integrates materials chemistry, biological engineering, physical analysis, process engineering and data science. We collaborate with academic and industrial partners all around the world.
A focus of our research are Engineered Living Materials (ELMs), an emergent class of materials at the interface between materials science and synthetic biology, with huge potential for sustainable innovation in different technological fields. The multidisciplinary component of our research requires intensive information and data exchange between multiple disciplines. We work on semantically structured data and interfaces, AI-driven workflows, and contribute to engaging the growing ELM community in digitalized research.
To support the digitalization of SynBio work within the context of ELM development, we are seeking a
Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in Synthetic Biology (f/m/d)
and interest in data-driven research. The position is integrated in the collaborative network MaterialVital Hub , recently funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) in collaboration with the Galaxy Community Hub . The candidate will be part of a team of experimental scientists and research data management experts at INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials and Bioinformaticians at the University of Freiburg.
Your roles:
- Contribute to the digitalization of synthetic biology workflows for ELM development in collaboration with SynBio researchers at INM.
- Develop metadata schemas for typical synthetic biology steps and methodologies in ELM research which are transferable to electronic LabBooks and data platforms of relevance for other researchers within the MaterialVital Hub.
- Contribute to the development of an ELM-dedicated ontology for interoperability within the MaterialVital Hub in cooperation with MaterialDigital Platform partners and the Galaxy Community Hub.
- Support and promote digitalization of the ELM community within the MaterialVital Hub in close interaction with Galaxi Community Hub and MaterialDigital Platform and NFDI.
- Attend workshops and disseminate your work within the ELM community by presenting at conferences and scientific events.
- Document your work and report to project coordinators and stakeholders.
Your profile:
- PhD degree in synthetic biology, biotechnology or related disciplines.
- Experience as experimental researcher in combination with modelling or data-driven methods is ideal. Previous experience as data steward, or previous work within NFDI Consortia is of advantage. Knowledge in automated workflows for SynBio research is advantageous.
- Interest in working with and for the digitalization of the ELM community.
- Self-driven and hands-on personality. Organization and prioritization skills.
- Very good communication skills in English.
We offer:
- An emergent research topic with multiple opportunities to contribute and interact with the growing community and contribute to its development at an early stage.
- Direct access to and high visibility in the SynBio and ELM networks at national and international level.
- An existing team with expertise and drive to move forward digitalization in ELM research. A well-structured on-boarding process and clear responsibilities.
- A community-oriented, multifaceted work with great scope for creativity.
- A highly professional and supportive working environment with an open and international culture.
- Strong support of training and career development towards an outstanding profile as data scientist in synthetic biology research.
- Flexible working hours and mobile working opportunity.
- A family-friendly working place.
- A EG 13 TV-L position (full time). A part time position is also possible.
The position is initially for 3 years.
Interested?
We look forward to your application! Please upload your CV and motivation letter, by September 15th, 2026 via the online application system. For further information on this position, please contact INM Scientific Director Prof. Dr. Aránzazu del Campo ( aranzazu.delcampo(at)leibniz-inm.de ).
The INM practices an open and appreciative corporate culture in which the existing diversity is promoted and lived. The institute is an equal opportunity employer with a certified family-friendly policy, and it provides offers for a better work-life balance, flextime, and mobile working. We promote professional opportunities for women and strongly encourage them to apply. Full time jobs can be generally divided. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualifications and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.
