Postdoctoral researcher in Microbial Biophysics (f/m/d)

A focus of our research are Engineered Living Materials (ELMs), an emergent class of materials from the combination of inert materials and living organism, with huge potential for sustainable innovation in different technological fields. Across the institute, materials scientists, synthetic biologists and biophysicists cooperate to understand living and inert matter, and to realize new materials with unprecedented functions from a synergistic interfacing.

We are strongly linked to collaborative initiatives in the ELM field including the Leibniz ScienceCampus LifeMat, Living Therapeutic Materials, the Priority Program SPP2451 “Living Materials with Adaptive Functions”, and the MaterialVital Hub.

As part of our ELM research community, we are seeking a

Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in Microbial Biophysics (f/m/d)

with interest in the fundamental understanding of microbial communities within synthetic microenvironments. The candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary research team within the Department Dynamic Biomaterials at INM.

Your roles:

• Experimental research to understand microbial behaviour in confined spaces (synthetic hydrogels) and dynamic environments using imaging, microfluidics and molecular biology methods.
• Scientific cooperation with researchers in materials science and synthetic biology at INM, and with external partners in bioanalytics/bioinformatics within running funded projects.
• Compilation and presentation of research results in the form of progress reports and presentations at project meetings and scientific conferences.
• Communication of research results within the scientific community at conferences and scientific events, and publication in scientific journals.
• Co-supervision of students and doctoral researchers.
• Support and promote the digitalization of ELM research in collaboration with dedicated experts in the group.

Your profile:

• PhD degree in biophysics/cell biology or related discipline.
• Experience during your PhD or previous postdoctoral stay as experimental researcher in the field of microbial biophysics.
• Interest in collaborative and interdisciplinary research challenges.
• Self-driven and hands-on personality. Organization and prioritization skills.
• Very good communication skills in English.

We offer:

• Work in an emergent research topic, with multiple opportunities to develop a competitive research profile.
• An interdisciplinary research environment with complementary expertise and ready to share knowledge and support your work.
• State-of-the-art infrastructure, including access to Core Facilities run by experts.
• Access to a broad international network with vibrant scientific collaborators and exciting cooperation projects.
• A highly professional and supportive working environment with an open and international culture.
• A well-structured on-boarding process and clear responsibilities.
• Transparent opportunities for career development.
• Flexible working hours and mobile working opportunity.
• A family-friendly working place.
• A EG 13 TV-L position (full time). A part time position is also possible.

The position is initially for 2 years.

Interested?

We look forward to your application! Please upload your CV and motivation letter, by October 15th, 2026 via the online application system. For further information on this position, please contact INM Scientific Director and Head of the Research Department Dynamic Biomaterials Prof. Dr. Aránzazu del Campo (aranzazu.delcampo@leibniz-inm.de ).

The INM practices an open and appreciative corporate culture in which the existing diversity is promoted and lived. The institute is an equal opportunity employer with a certified family-friendly policy, and it provides offers for a better work-life balance, flextime, and mobile working. We promote professional opportunities for women and strongly encourage them to apply. Full time jobs can be generally divided. People with disabilities are expressly encouraged to apply and will be given priority if equally qualified.