Junior Research Group Leader Position within the Cluster of Excellence "Balance of the Microverse" Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena

We invite applications for

A Junior Research Group Leader Position within the Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse”

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse” integrates ecological and medical fields to enhance our understanding of microbial balance from the molecular to the ecosystem level. We develop tools and detection technologies to shape microbiome dynamics for environmental and human health benefits.

We invite outstanding early-career researchers to apply for the opportunity to establish and lead an independent junior research group within our Cluster of Excellence. We welcome ambitious, original and forward-looking research proposals that advance the overarching scientific mission of the Cluster and contribute to one or more of its Research Areas:

• SIGNALS: explore how microbes produce, recognize and react to context-dependent signals, the resulting community dynamics, and how these signalling processes underlie molecular mechanisms of infection
• STRUCTURES: investigate the compositional and spatial structures of communities of microbes and/or viruses, and the influence of these structures on ecosystem functions, dynamics, and stability, from local to global scales
• TRANSITIONS: study microbiome stability, resilience, and tipping points across different life stages and in response to environmental changes, using model systems, natural populations and clinical data to understand the mechanisms driving transitions between health and disease

The successful candidate will benefit from an outstanding interdisciplinary research environment, access to the Cluster’s scientific expertise and infrastructure, and opportunities to establish collaborations across disciplinary boundaries. We are looking for researchers who pursue bold scientific questions, develop new perspectives and make significant contributions to the Cluster’s research program while establishing their own independent research profile.

We particularly encourage applications that open up new directions or bridge existing Research Areas within the overarching Balance of the Microverse research theme.

Your profile:

• A PhD and postdoctoral experience in one of the Cluster’s research fields
• A strong research track record, demonstrating research excellence, a distinguished research profile and creativity
• A convincing contribution to at least one of the Cluster's Research Areas, and an ambitious research vision with the potential to advance the field
• The ability to build and lead a research team, supervise early-career researchers, and create a stimulating and supportive research environment
• A strong commitment to scientific exchange and active engagement in the dynamic Microverse community
• Experience in developing competitive research proposals and securing external funding is advantageous

We offer:

• The opportunity to establish and lead an independent junior research group and develop your own research agenda
• Dedicated funding for your own position, a postdoc and a doctoral researcher position, and for research consumables
• Remuneration in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) depending on the personal qualifications at salary scale E14
• Integration into a highly visible Cluster of Excellence with an internationally competitive and interdisciplinary research community
• The opportunity to pursue original research and develop new directions within the Cluster’s overarching scientific framework
• A stimulating and supportive academic environment and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across the Research Areas
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, relevant infrastructure and shared scientific resources
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

The full-time junior group leader position is available from March 2027 and is initially limited to four years; an extension might be possible subject to performance and availability of funds.

We particularly encourage applications from female researchers. The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is an equal opportunity employer and part-time contracts can be discussed. Disabled persons with comparable qualifications will receive preferential status.

Join us in exploring how microbial balance shapes life – and in unlocking its potential for a healthier future.

Apply by 07.12.2026 using our online form. Complete applications in English include a cover letter, a detailed curriculum vitae, a research proposal (max. 4 pages), a list of publications and successful grant applications, contact details of two references, and copies of academic certificates.

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