Research technician/Lab manager

Are you excited by ambitious genome engineering experiments and by the opportunity to help build a new lab from the ground up? The Koeppel lab is looking for a highly skilled experimental scientist to help establish and drive a new research programme at the interface of genome engineering, functional genomics, and single‑cell genomics. We develop scalable genome‑editing technologies to generate, genotype, and phenotype thousands of designed structural variants in human cells. Our goal is to map sequence dispensability, decode non‑coding genome architecture, and lay the foundation for minimal mammalian genomes.

Projects in the lab will involve developing and applying scalable genome engineering approaches to generate structural variants in human cells, followed by molecular, genomic, and single‑cell readouts to understand effects on gene regulation and cell state. This hybrid scientific role combines independent research, lab organisation, and support for projects across the group. Depending on experience and interests, there may be opportunities to develop independent project directions within the lab’s broader research programme.

Extensive molecular biology experience is required, including familiarity with molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, and genomics. Experience with genome engineering, multiplexed screening, sequencing library preparation, and single‑cell assays is an advantage. Experience with basic sequencing data analysis, or enthusiasm to work closely with computational colleagues, would also be valuable. The successful candidate should be able to work independently, be highly motivated, and be very well organised.

Your role

The appointed candidate will contribute to the development and execution of ambitious genome engineering and genomics projects in human cell systems. This may include mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, CRISPR/Cas‑based perturbations, sequencing library preparation, and single‑cell genomics workflows. As one of the first members of the lab, you will also help establish core experimental workflows, organise lab infrastructure, maintain key reagents, and shape a collaborative, warm, and rigorous lab culture from the beginning. There may be opportunities to develop independent project directions within the lab’s broader research programme and to work closely with students, postdocs, and computational collaborators.

You have

• A University degree with additional lab experience or a PhD, or equivalent experience in molecular biology, genomics, genome engineering, cell biology, or a related field.
• The ideal candidate is a highly skilled wet‑lab scientist with strong experience in complex molecular biology protocols and excellent organisational skills.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, genome engineering, sequencing library preparation, and functional genomics approaches is particularly relevant.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, independence, reliability, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for working in a collaborative international team are essential.
• Fluency in English is required.

Why join us

This is a rare opportunity to join a new research group at its beginning and to help shape both its scientific direction and its experimental culture. You will develop ambitious genome‑engineering approaches to understand how human genomes function. As one of the first members of the group, you will play an important role in establishing experimental workflows, building robust lab infrastructure, and driving projects from the ground up.

The position is designed for a scientist who enjoys both independence and collaboration. You will have the opportunity to contribute to your own research direction within the lab’s broader programme, while also working closely with students, postdocs, and collaborators to develop methods, troubleshoot experiments, and support projects across the group. The role therefore combines hands‑on experimental science, project ownership, mentoring, and lab organisation.

EMBL is an inclusive, equal‑opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation with a very collegial and family friendly working environment.

Enjoy Lots Of Benefits

• Financial incentives: Salary free of income tax, monthly family, child and non‑resident allowances, annual salary review, pension scheme, death benefit, long‑term care, accident‑at‑work and unemployment insurances
• Flexible working arrangements
• Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family (including prescriptions and generous dental & optical cover)
• Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year, in addition to public holidays
• Relocation package including installation grant (if applicable)
• Campus life: Free shuttle bus (Heidelberg), library, subsidised on‑site cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely)
• Family benefits: Kindergarten (Heidelberg), 10 days of child sick leave, generous paid maternity/parental leave and monthly family & child allowances
• Benefits for international newcomers: Visa exemption, education grant for private schooling, financial support to travel back to your home country every second year and a monthly non‑resident allowance.
• For detailed information please visit our employee benefits page.

International applicants

We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Please visit our International Applicants page for more details.

Diversity and inclusion

EMBL is a signatory of DORA. We believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities and other diverse backgrounds.