Independent Junior Research Group Leaders (m/f/d)

The Cluster of Excellence EXC 2124 “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections” (CMFI) at the University of Tübingen invites applications for

Independent Junior Research Group Leaders (m/f/d)

in the field of microbial community interaction

EXC 2124 studies functional interactions in complex microbial communities, the microbiomes, with emphasis on bacterial pathogens and antibiotic resistance. It is a world‑leading interdisciplinary research institution awarded as a Cluster of Excellence by the German Excellence Strategy since 2019. EXC 2124 combines more than 40 laboratories at the University of Tübingen, the University Hospital Tübingen, and the Max Planck Institute for Biology in a stimulating, highly interactive research environment, covering molecular, ecological, immunological, compound‑focused, computational, and clinical research.

To complement our research activities, we are seeking highly motivated scientists with an outstanding scientific track record and substantial international research experience in fields related to the aims of the cluster. They may address but are not restricted to bacterial secondary metabolomics, pathogen‑host interaction, microbiome‑host communication, microbiome editing, or microbiome‑aware, resistance‑preventing antibacterial strategies. The successful candidate is expected to actively contribute to the Cluster of Excellence EXC 2124 and, if appropriate, to further research networks of the German Research Foundation and the German Center for Infection Research. Both, basic and translational approaches are welcome. For further information on EXC 2124 please visit

The selected candidates will obtain attractive startup packages for six years. This is a fixed‑term position ending on December 31, 2032. They are expected to implement their research groups starting by beginning of 2027 or later. Required qualifications include an outstanding doctoral thesis in a discipline related to the Cluster of Excellence, recognizable potential for publications in leading peer‑reviewed international journals, and initial experience in acquisition of research grants and in teaching.

The University of Tübingen is committed to equity and diversity and actively promotes equal opportunities. Equally qualified candidates with disabilities will be given preference in the hiring process. The University of Tübingen is committed to increasing the percentage of women in research and teaching and thus encourages women with adequate qualifications to apply. In line with its internationalization agenda, the university welcomes applications from researchers outside Germany. Employment will be officially carried out by the central university administration.

Applications with supporting documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications and teaching experience, certificates/diplomas) as well as a research statement including collaboration plans, along with the completed application form (download here; please complete the form using Adobe Acrobat) should be sent by email as a single PDF file (max 10 MB) to Dr. Dirk Kraus by June 7, 2026.