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 processes, physical analysis, process engineering, and data science. We collaborate with academic and industrial partners all around the world.
A focus of our research is 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 and medical fields. Our institute develops safe-by-design concepts for responsible ELM innovation.
To lead a community-driven initiative in ELMs, we seek a
Postdoctoral researcher in Regulatory Science related to
biotechnology / biomedical products (f/m/d)
to perform research on needs, challenges, expectations, and best practices for the development of safe and sustainable ELM-based technologies in the future, and to elaborate guidelines for researchers and developers of ELMs. The scientist will coordinate and work together with a knowledge-exchange network with experts from relevant stakeholders with interest in ELM research, innovation, and regulation (academic institutions, industry, consultants, regulatory agencies). This project is framed within the collaborative network MaterialVital Hub, recently funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR).
Your roles
- Analysis of needs, challenges, and upcoming expectations for ELM regulation through interviews and dedicated workshops with experts.
- Systematic analysis and documentation of existing frameworks of relevance for ELM regulation.
- Expansion of an existing network of experts. Communication and coordination of the work within the network.
- Conceptualization and implementation of information exchange and documentation formats within the network.
- Elaboration of praxis-oriented guidelines, decision-making trees, and proposing metrics for safe-by-design approaches in ELM research that help integrate safety aspects at the early stage of materials design. These should be informed and compile the knowledge from the exchange among experts in the network.
- Conceptualization of the outreach action plan (website, online platform, workshops) in cooperation with scientists in MaterialVital Hub and communication experts at INM and partner institutions.
- Reporting to project coordinator, partners, and funding agencies.
Your profile
- PhD in Regulatory Affairs related to biotechnological or pharmaceutical topics. Alternatively, a university degree in natural, engineering, or life sciences and previous experience in regulatory affairs at the industry or regulatory agencies. Alternatively, a PhD in biomedical materials, pharmaceutical science, or microbiology, with experience in clinical translation of cell therapies.
- Interest in inter- and transdisciplinary challenges.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Proactive, problem-solving, structured, and autonomous working style.
- Writing and communication skills in German and English.
What we offer
- An interesting and timely topic with high visibility and opportunities for interaction with public and private partners.
- A network of interested partners to collaborate with you and support your work.
- A dynamic environment with substantial room for creativity, profile, and career development.
- A professional and supportive working environment with an open and international culture.
- A well-structured onboarding process and clear responsibilities.
- Possibilities for further training and qualification.
- Flexible working hours and mobile working opportunity.
- A family-friendly working place.
- A EG 13 TV-L position (full time), initially for 3 years. A part-time position is also possible.
Interested?
We look forward to your application! Please upload your CV and motivation letter, by May 30th, 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. People with disabilities are expressly encouraged to apply and will be given priority if equally qualified.
