Academic Staff Member (f/m/d) in DNA-Based Information Processing Systems

Job location

Karlsruhe (and Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen)

The research groups of Prof. Ralf Reussner (KASTEL – Institute of Security and Dependability / CRC 1608 Convide) and Prof. Lennart Hilbert (Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems - Biological Information Processing IBCS-BIP) are working together to understand how systems in synthetic biology can be designed with multi‑view modeling paradigms as used in software engineering and other engineering disciplines. The project pioneers conceptual and technical synergies between using engineering inspired multi‑model frameworks and biological systems that use DNA as both, a building material and a logical information code, inspired by transcriptional organization in the cell nucleus. The goal is to explore an example case how principles from consistent multi‑view modeling of technical systems can inspire new approaches of modelling biological information processing, and vice versa.

Your Tasks

Role

With the biology position filled, we are now looking for a computer scientist with a background in model‑driven software development to complement our team. You will play a key role in this highly exploratory and interdisciplinary project, combining computational, theoretical, and experimental approaches to design artificial, DNA‑based information processing systems inspired by transcriptional organization in the biological cell nucleus. Key aspects of the role include:

• Development of theoretical concepts and software frameworks
• Integration of multi-model and multi‑view structural and simulation models into a consistency‑directed framework
• Data‑driven refinement of digital representation models
• Automation of data processing and evidence‑based inference tasks
• Exchange with experimental biological laboratory scientists

Your Profile

• Excellent master's degree in computer science or related subjects.
• Background in model‑driven software development.
• Strong demonstrable commitment to research.
• Demonstrable interest in exploratory interdisciplinary research.
• Proficiency in English, very good speaking and writing skills.
• Experience in biology is a plus.

We Offer

• Science for Impact : Engage with topics of societal relevance—in an excellent scientific environment that enables change.
• Flexible Working Hours : Take advantage of flexible‑hours schemes, remote‑work options, and a 30‑day annual leave entitlement to achieve an optimal work‑life balance.
• Career‑Building and Developmental Opportunities : We provide you with a structured onboarding program, a broad spectrum of continuing‑education options, and personalised support, thereby fostering your individual growth.
• Family‑friendliness : The “KIT‑Family+” program assists you in reconciling work and family life by offering childcare services, holiday activities, a parent‑child office space, and assistance with caring for relatives.
• Stay Healthy : Under the motto “Fit at KIT – Body, Mind and Soul,” we promote your well‑being through fitness classes and mental‑health programmes.
• Individualised Extra Benefits : Enjoy a corporate pension (VBL), a €25 monthly contribution toward a JobTicketBW, plus a broad selection of cultural and recreational programmes.

Job location

Karlsruhe (and Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen)

Salary

Salary category 13 TV-L; classification is based on personal and professional qualifications.

Contract duration

Limited for an initial period of 12 months with an extension option for up to four years in total.

Contact person in line‑management

Prof. Dr. Ralf Reussner

Prof. Dr. Lennart Hilbert

Personalservice (PSE)

At KIT we value the diversity of our employees; different perspectives and backgrounds enrich our work. We therefore welcome applications from all candidates. Women are especially encouraged to apply. Applications from recognized severely disabled individuals are given preferential consideration when qualifications are equal.

Application up to

Job posting number

1219/2026

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