Postdoc Bioprocess Engineering (m/w/d)

Leibniz-Institut für Naturstoff-Forschung und Infektionsbiologie

The Bio Pilot Plant at Leibniz-HKI investigates, develops, and supports the creation of new active ingredients and microbiological products for a wide range of applications. The Leibniz-HKI is located in the “science city” of Jena on the Beutenberg Campus.

One focus of the Bio Pilot Plant is on researching and developing innovative bioprocesses and complete bioprocess chains. To this end, we utilize all biological and process engineering possibilities offered by nature and the outstanding infrastructure of the Bio Pilot Plant. In order to understand unknown organisms and their metabolic reactions and transfer them into a bioprocess, accompanying efficient process analysis is essential. Chromatographic and spectroscopic methods are primarily used for this purpose. An essential component of every bioprocess is the customized purification of the target product using suitable separation and purification methods.

We are looking for a new employee who will utilize this technical potential to answer biological questions, particularly in the area of the discovery and formation of new valuable and active substances. The successful candidate will investigate the growth characteristics of microorganisms, develop bioprocesses, and solve existing challenges through innovative biotechnological approaches. This work is carried out in close collaboration with our projects in the Cluster of Excellence "Balance of the Microverse," the Priority Program "InterZell," and several EU projects.

What you can expect:

• You will develop concepts for microbiological processes and implement them in an interdisciplinary manner with the bioprocess team.
• You will cultivate microorganisms from microtiter plates and shake flasks to stirred-bed bioreactors (0.1- 300 L).
• You will analyze and characterize growth and product formation, if possible using online measurement techniques.
• You will process, analyze, and interpret experimental data, prepare reports and scientific publications.
• You will participate in scientific discussions and national and international conferences, and present your work.

Your profile:

• You have a doctorate in bioprocess engineering, biotechnology, or a related discipline.
• You have extensive and proven experience in bioprocess development.
• You have proven experience with microbiological systems and their cultivation.
• You have knowledge and experience in online analysis of bioprocesses, e.g., using exhaust gas analysis and/or fluorescence measurement.
• You may have expertise in the analysis and modeling of complex systems. Details
• Enjoyment of working in an international and interdisciplinary research team and team-oriented, creative, and independent work characterize your profile.
• You have very good communication skills in English and a good command of German.

What we offer:

• A dynamic, innovative, interdisciplinary, diverse, and highly motivated research group
• An outstanding scientific environment on the Beutenberg Campus with state-of-the-art research facilities and an integrative network of life science and technical institutes
• Excellent technical equipment and a broad range of cutting-edge methods
• Opportunities to realize your own innovative ideas, develop new projects, and further your scientific qualifications
• Integration into the junior staff training program of the Leibniz Association and the Leibniz-HKI
• A salary according to the German TV-L standard (TV-L).

Further Information:

Prof. Dr. Miriam Agler-Rosenbaum | +493641 532 1120 | Leibniz-HKI online application system.

Application:

Leibniz-HKI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law will receive consideration for employment.

Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, a CV, a certificate of study/transcript of records, the addresses of two possible referees, and should be submitted via the Leibniz-HKI online application system. The deadline for applications is September 30th, 2025, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.