PhD Position in Synthetic Biology (f/m/d): Developing Next Generation Living Therapeutic Materials

The INM – Leibniz Institute for New Materials , Department of Materials Synthetic Biology , invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d)

to work at the forefront of synthetic biology and living therapeutic materials .

In this PhD project, you will transform engineered microorganisms into living therapeutic systems capable of producing and delivering therapeutic compounds . By integrating synthetic biology with advanced biomaterials, you will explore how material environments shape biological function, enabling engineered living therapeutics designed for controlled and effective in vitro drug delivery .

The position is embedded in the Leibniz Science Campus on Living Therapeutic Materials (LSC‑Lifemat) ( ) a highly interdisciplinary and international consortium bringing together synthetic biologists, materials scientists, microbiologists, and clinicians. Your work will directly contribute to shaping future therapies that bridge biology and materials science.

The position is available immediately; a later start date is possible.

Your Research Tasks

• Perform advanced molecular biology techniques , including molecular cloning (e.g. Gibson assembly, restriction enzyme cloning)
• Generate and analyze engineered bacteria for therapeutic applications
• Produce, purify, and characterize proteins (IMAC, SEC, SDS‑PAGE, Western blot, etc.)
• Assess bacterial longevity and viability using techniques such as FACS, microscopy, and spectrophotometry
• Collaborate on in vivo testing engineered bacteria in zebrafish models
• Analyze experimental data, prepare figures, contribute to scientific publications and present your results at meetings and conferences

Your Profile

• A master’s degree in biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, or a related field, or being close to completion of such a degree
• Strong practical experience in molecular cloning techniques
• Proven experience with prokaryotic protein expression, purification, and characterization
• Solid background in microbial culture and bioprocesses
• Self‑motivation to work in an interdisciplinary, international research environment
• Very good written and spoken English

Please note: Applicants are required to submit university transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s level, or equivalent) as part of the application. These will be considered during the evaluation process.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to pursue a PhD at the cutting edge of living therapeutic materials
• Integration into a highly visible, interdisciplinary research network (LSC‑Lifemat)
• Close supervision and mentoring by experienced scientists in synthetic biology, protein engineering, and engineered living materials
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and strong support for scientific publishing and conference participation
• Excellent conditions for professional and personal development in an international environment

Application Procedure

Please submit the following documents via our application system:

• Motivation letter describing your scientific interests
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• University transcripts and grades
• Publication list (if available)
• Contact details of two academic references
• Application deadline: May 31st, 2026
• Materials Synthetic Biology - INM

If you have any questions or would require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Veronika Vetýšková ( ) or Prof. Wilfried Weber ( ).

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 work. We promote the professional opportunities of women and strongly encourage them to apply. People with disabilities are expressly encouraged to apply and will be given priority if equally qualified.