Head of Max Planck DNA Biofoundry for automated DNA assembly

Location: Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg

Contract Type: Full Time, 5 years with possibility to extend

Closing date: 15 February 2025

The Max Planck Institute (MPI) for Terrestrial Microbiology in Marburg, Germany, is seeking a talented and motivated scientist to lead its Core Facility for DNA Assembly / DNA Biofoundry. This is a full-time position offering a unique opportunity to advance synthetic biology through cutting-edge automation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

About MPI

The MPI in Marburg is home to four Departments and multiple independent research groups focusing on microbial physiology, genetics, and synthetic microbiology. Together with the University of Marburg, the institute operates the Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), a hub for synthetic microbiology that fosters an innovative, international, and collaborative research environment.

MPI’s DNA Biofoundry leverages state-of-the-art automation for the design, assembly, and validation of DNA constructs, making it an integral tool for advancing synthetic biology technologies.

The Role

As the Head of the DNA Biofoundry, you will:

Lead a team operating an advanced facility for automated DNA construction, including the assembly of complex DNA libraries, genetic circuits, operons, and artificial chromosomes (bacterial, yeast, and organelle).
Manage and optimize a high-throughput liquid-handling platform, featuring acoustic dispensers and a DNA design-assembly-validation pipeline.
Collaborate closely with researchers from MPI, SYNMIKRO, and the Max Planck Society to support and develop diverse research projects.

Your Profile

MPI are seeking a dynamic and collaborative leader with:

A PhD and substantial expertise in DNA assembly for synthetic biology, biotechnology, or molecular genetics.
Experience in advanced genetic engineering methods (e.g., MoClo, CRISPR/Cas, MAGE), computer-aided DNA design, and lab automation systems.
Proficiency with lab information management systems (LIMS).
Strong communication skills, a team-oriented mindset, and the ability to thrive in a fast-evolving interdisciplinary environment.

Please send your application as a single PDF file to jobs-foundry@mpi-marburg.mpg.de by February 15, 2025.

Your application should include: