Head of the Core Facility for Protein Biochemistry (m/f/d)

Application deadline2026-08-23

Start of worknext possible date

ScopeFull time

Paymentup to TVÖD E14

About Us

The Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology in Berlin-Mitte is an institution of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science and is one of the leading research institutes in the field of immunology and infectious diseases.

Our institute is currently establishing a new location in Berlin-Dahlem. The newly formed department led by Veit Hornung focuses on mechanisms of innate immunity and combines modern cell biology and biochemical approaches with studies in animal models. To begin immediately, we are seeking a Head of the Core Facility for Protein Biochemistry (m/f/d).

The Core Facility will provide state-of-the-art technologies for recombinant protein expression, protein purification, and the biophysical characterization of proteins and biomolecular interactions. You will play a key role in establishing and scientifically advancing the facility and will support the institute’s researchers in carrying out challenging protein biochemistry projects. You will play a decisive role in shaping the Core Facility from the very beginning.

Your responsibilities

Management and development of the Core Facility

• You will be responsible for establishing and managing the Protein Biochemistry Core Facility.
• You will advance the Core Facility strategically and establish state-of-the-art technologies for protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterization.
• You will coordinate the facility’s operations with the technical staff to ensure efficient, service-oriented, and high-quality operations.
• You will oversee the procurement, maintenance, and continuous development of equipment infrastructure.

Scientific consulting and user support

• You will advise researchers on how to plan experimental strategies for recombinant protein expression, protein purification, and biophysical characterization.
• You will support internal and external users in selecting suitable expression systems and experimental methods.
• You will conduct training sessions for new users and establish standard protocols and quality standards within the core facility.

Experimental work

• You will personally carry out challenging projects involving recombinant protein expression in Escherichia coli, insect, and mammalian cells, as well as protein purification.
• You will establish and optimize workflows for protein biochemistry applications and develop new methods in line with current scientific requirements.
• You will operate state-of-the-art biophysical instruments for characterizing proteins and protein interactions and support the planning, execution, and analysis of related experiments.

Organization and scientific development

• You will carry out challenging projects involving recombinant protein expression in Escherichia coli, insect cells, and mammalian cells, as well as protein purification.
• You will establish and optimize workflows for protein biochemistry applications, developing new methods in line with current scientific requirements.
• You will operate state-of-the-art biophysical instruments to characterize proteins and protein interactions, as well as support the planning, execution, and analysis of related experiments.

Your qualifications

• A completed university degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, as well as a PhD.
• Several years of practical experience in recombinant protein expression and protein purification.
• In-depth knowledge of various expression systems, particularly Escherichia coli, baculovirus/insect cells, and mammalian cell cultures.
• Experience with biophysical methods for characterizing proteins and biomolecular interactions, such as SPR, MST, ITC, SEC-MALS, and spectroscopic methods.
• Experience in structural biology, particularly in preparing samples for structural biology techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy or X-ray crystallography, is an asset.
• Experience operating or scientifically managing of a core facility or comparable research infrastructure is an asset.
• A strong service orientation and a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration with researchers.
• Experience in providing technical guidance to staff is desirable.
• You work independently and in a structured manner with a focus on finding solutions.
• You are fluent in German and English.

Our offer

• You can expect a responsible and varied role at an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented research institute.
• You will help build a modern core facility and establish a central scientific infrastructure for internationally recognized research in the field of protein biochemistry.
• Depending on your qualifications, we offer compensation up to Pay Grade 14 under the TVöD Bund collective bargaining agreement, as well as various benefits.
• We support you in balancing work and family life through flexible working hours.
• You will have the opportunity to receive a discounted job ticket for public transportation.
• The position is initially limited to 2 years; permanent employment is the goal.

The Max Planck Society is committed to gender equality and diversity and seeks to increase the proportion of women in fields where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore expressly encouraged to apply. The Max Planck Society has also set itself the goal of employing more people with severe disabilities. Applications from people with severe disabilities are expressly welcome.

Have we piqued your interest? Then we look forward to receiving your application, including a personalized cover letter, resume, transcripts, and other relevant documents, via our application platform.

Contact

Max-Planck-Institut für Infektionsbiologie
Charitéplatz 1
10117 Berlin