Junior Research Group Leader (m/f/div)#25/26

The position is limited to five years initially, with the possibility of an extension depending on performance and positive evaluation. During this period, the successful candidate will be supported in establishing their own research group and acquiring further funding.

We seek applications from advanced postdoctoral researchers with an original research vision, an outstanding scientific record, and the ambition to pursue an independent academic career and build an independent research profile.

Research topic:

The research topic is open within the institute’s scientific focus: microbial natural products and infection biology, particularly of human-pathogenic fungi.

Your program could explore, for example:

• The discovery, biosynthesis, biological functions, or engineering of microbial natural products.
• Natural products in microbial communication, communities, and interactions of microbial communities with their environment.
• Fungal pathogenicity, host–pathogen interactions, immune responses to infection or fungal infections and microbiome.
• New concepts for anti-infective discovery, diagnostics, or therapeutic intervention.
• Quantitative, computational, or technology-driven approaches that open new avenues in these areas.

The successful candidate is expected to actively collaborate within our interdisciplinary research community. They will be associated with one of the research units at the Leibniz-HKI – depending on the thematic focus – and will have access to state-of-the-art existing research infrastructure.

• A PhD (or equivalent) and postdoctoral research experience in a relevant field
• An excellent track record in your research area as well as successful interdisciplinary cooperation
• The aspiration to build and lead your own research group and the capability to train and guide early career researchers
• An original, ambitious, and feasible vision for an independent research program
  
• The ability to work creatively and independently towards developing your research profile
• Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for actively participating in the dynamic community of the Leibniz-HKI
• We encourage applications from researchers who spent time abroad and wish to return to Germany to establish a scientific career here

• A highly communicative atmosphere within a scientific network providing top-level research
• An outstanding scientific environment at the Beutenberg Campus providing state-of-the-art research facilities and a highly integrative network of life science groups
• Support in identifying suitable funding opportunities (e.g. DFG, ERC, Leibniz Competition) and help for preparation of grant proposals 
• Attractive staff benefits and a family-friendly working environment with flexible working options
• Funding for personnel to build a group and an annual budget for consumables and investments
• Comprehensive support in developing your research profile and acquiring third party funding
• Participation in structured mentoring and leadership development programs
• Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees) 

Leibniz-HKI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law will receive consideration for employment.

Complete applications in English should be submitted via the Leibniz-HKI online application system and include a cover letter, a CV containing a complete list of publications, a brief statement of research experience, a short research proposal for establishing an independent group, and the addresses of two possible references. The deadline for the advertisement is January 8, 2027, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.