Head of Max Planck DNA Biofoundry for automated DNA assembly
Scientist Marburg
Developmental and Evolutionary Biology & Genetics Microbiology & Ecology Plant Research
The MPI in Marburg consists of four Departments and several independent research groups spanning from microbial physiology and genetics to systems and synthetic microbiology. Together with the University of Marburg, the MPI operates the Center for Synthetic Microbiology (SYNMIKRO), which offers a stimulating interdisciplinary and international research environment and makes Marburg a vibrant hub for synthetic microbiology.
To further advance technological possibilities in synthetic microbiology, a DNA foundry was established in Marburg that uses state-of-the art lab automation for the design and part-based assembly of DNA constructs and their delivery to chassis organisms.
Your role
You will lead a team to operate a central facility for the automatized construction, assembly and screening of DNA constructs, in particular advanced libraries for enzyme and pathway engineering, genetic circuits, complex & large operons, and artificial (bacterial, yeast & organelle) chromosomes. This will include the application of an automatized, high-throughput liquid robot handling platform including two acoustic dispensers and a DNA design-assembly-validation pipeline. You and your team will support and develop research projects in close contact with different labs from Marburg and the Max Planck Society.
Your profile
The position requires a PhD and relevant experience in DNA assembly for synthetic biology, biotechnology or molecular genetics. Experience in advanced genetic enginee-ring methods (e.g., MoClo, CRISPR/Cas, MAGE), computer-aided DNA design & manufacturing, as well as lab automation & lab information management systems are highly desired.
We seek a good communicator who is able to interact with scientists from a variety of backgrounds, is team-oriented and enjoys working in a highly collaborative and fast evolving research environment. The position is initially limited to five years, but can be extended depending on the positive evaluation of the facility.
The location
Marburg is a medieval, international University town that lies in the Center of Germany and in close proximity to Frankfurt Airport, one of the major airport hubs in Europe. 300 people from more than 35 nations work at the MPI. Daily language at the Institute is English.
Equal opportunities
As an equal opportunity employer, the Max Planck Society is committed to employing more individuals with disabilities. We therefore actively encourage individuals with disabilities to apply. We also seek to increase the percentage of female employees in areas where they are underrepresented. Further information can be obtained from the managing director Prof. Dr. Helge Bode .
Your application
Applications should be sent as single pdf file to Please include your CV, names and email addresses of three academic referees, statements of previous research, as well as future research & career goals (no more than two pages for each). Applications should be received by February 15, 2025
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