Doctoral Researcher Position (F/M/D) In Theranostic Engineered Living Materials

The INM research group Bioprogrammable Materials is looking for an enthusiastic Doctoral Researcher to work at the interface of synthetic biology and biomaterials.

Our research focuses on developing engineered living materials (ELMs), integrating living cells with functional materials to create responsive systems for theranostic applications. The project will involve designing and building bacteria-based systems embedded in soft materials to enable communication, sensing, and therapeutic responses.

We are seeking to fill a Doctoral Researcher position for a project that combines microbial engineering, hydrogel-based materials, and comprehensive experimental characterization.

Your tasks:

• Engineering lactobacilli with synthetic genetic circuits
• Designing and fabricating biomaterial platforms (e.g., hydrogels, microgels) for hosting these bacteria
• Establishing and characterizing co-culture systems and intercellular communication mechanisms
• Performing quantitative experiments to study microbial behavior, signal transduction, and material properties
• Analyzing and interpreting experimental data using appropriate biochemical, microbiological, and imaging methods
• Active participation in the research activities of the group and collaboration with project partners
• Publishing scientific results and presenting findings at international conferences 

Your profile:

We are looking for a motivated candidate with a background in biomaterials, biotechnology, synthetic biology or a related field, who has strong hands-on laboratory experience. Strong academic experience in either biomaterials or biotechnology with practical exposure to the other field is desired. The candidate will be expected to work both independently within an interdisciplinary team, communicate in English, and collaborate effectively with a project partner in computational biology.

We offer:

• A 3-year E13 TV-L 60% contract with possibility of increment based on performance.
• A dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment with excellent, state-of-the-art infrastructure.
• A cooperative, friendly and supportive environment, with plenty of opportunities to interact with other researchers, also outside the team and the institute.
• The opportunity for training to support high-quality research and to further develop your profile.

Please send us the following through the online application system:

• Motivation letter
• CV (max 2 pages)
• Publication list (if available)
• Academic transcripts
• Contact details of 2 references

Submission deadline: 24th July 2026

For more information on the institute, please see: https://www.leibniz-inm.de/en/  

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. People with disabilities are expressly encouraged to apply and will be given priority if equally qualified.