Full Professorship (W3) in "Molecular Biology" (f/m/d) with a Focus on Biological Engineering

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The Center for Molecular Biology of Heidelberg University (ZMBH), the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung Center for Synthetic Genomics (CZS Center SynGen), and the Faculty of Engineering Sciences invite applications for aFull Professorship (W3)in «Molecular Biology» (f/m/d)with a Focus on Biological Engineeringto be filled at the earliest possible date.

We are offering a tenured, full professorship (W3) to a highly accomplished early-career scientist (for example independent junior group leader or a junior/assistant professor) in the fields of biological engineering at the molecular, cellular, or organismal level. Areas of research include synthetic genomes, protein engineering, cell engineering, or related fields at the interface of molecular life sciences and engineering, focusing on the application of principles and methods from biology, biomedicine, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and/or engineering to understand, modify, and optimize living systems or biological processes.

The candidate should demonstrate a strong track record in research excellence, secured third-party funding, exhibit strong collaborative skills, and possess a comprehensive understanding of the field. A strong motivation to contribute to our academic teaching programs, in particular the BSc and MSc in Molecular Biotechnology and the MSc in Molecular Systems Science and Engineering is expected. The position also requires active participation in academic governance and contribution to the development of the CZS Center SynGen ( as well as involvement in existing or emerging research networks on campus. The successful candidate will be a member of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences, with a possibility of additional affiliations. The position offers full salary support (W3 level) and a competitive research funding package.

The newly established CZS Center SynGen, supported by the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung, fosters research and development at the participating universities in Heidelberg, Karlsruhe, and Mainz, with the aim of establishing an internationally recognized research hub in the field of Synthetic Genomics. At Heidelberg University, the CZS Center SynGen comprises a fully funded junior research group, the Synthetic DNA Accelerator Lab, and two professorships (the advertised position is one of them). The advertised professorship will be funded by the ZMBH and will be affiliated to both the CZS Center SynGen and the ZMBH. Initially located at the ZMBH, the CZS Center SynGen groups will move to the new Heidelberg For Life (H4L) building, adjacent to the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research on the Heidelberg Life Science campus.

The Center for Molecular Biology of Heidelberg University (ZMBH) is a renowned international research center specializing in fundamental research in molecular and cell biology. Located on one of the largest life science campuses in Europe, the ZMBH hosts up to 15 independent research groups. We offer an outstanding international research environment, enriched by numerous university institutes and research centers. Our facilities include state-of-the-art scientific core services such as protein analytics (including mass spectrometry), advanced light microscopy, and flow cytometry, as well as a mechanical workshop and centralized administrative support. Further details of our research, teaching programs, and scientific facilities, are available on our website ( Additional scientific core facilities on campus complement the offered services ( 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, and an outline of future research interests.

In accordance with article 47 (1) of the Higher Education Law of the state of Baden-Württemberg (LHG) the appointment requires a University degree, an outstanding doctorate and pedagogical aptitude, which is usually proven by teaching experience. A habilitation, a successfully evaluated junior professorship or equivalent qualifications is an additional requirement (in accordance with article 47 (2) LHG).

Applications should be addressed to Prof. Dr. Guido Kanschat, Dean of Engineering Sciences and Prof. Dr. Elmar Schiebel, Head of ZMBH, and sent no later than January 31, 2025 by e-mail to:

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