Independent junior research group leaders (f/m/x)

The Cluster for Nucleic Acid Sciences and Technologies – NUCLEATE writes:

Senior Management (w/m/x) (TV-L E15) The Cluster for Nucleic Acid Sciences and Technologies (https://nucleate-cluster.de) is a joint research association of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU). NUCLEATE was founded in 2026 as a new Cluster of Excellence and is funded under the Excellence Strategy of the German Research Foundation (DFG). The NUCLEATE Cluster bundles internationally recognized research in nucleic acid sciences and technologies across all dimensions – from basic discoveries to translational applications. Through the networking of researchers across disciplines and institutions, the cluster establishes a globally visible centre for DNA and RNA-based research and innovation. To complement our research activities, we invite you to apply for three positions as an independent junior group management. Successful candidates receive an attractive start-up package to build an independent research program. They become an integral part of the NUCLEATE Cluster and participate in its cooperative research activities, scientific exchange, training programs and networking activities. A position is located at one of the three partner universities and is assigned to one of the dedicated hosting devices of the cluster:

• Genetic Center, LMU
• TUM School of Medicine and Health, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology
• Institute of Molecular Infection Biology / Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum, JMU We are looking for highly motivated scientists with an outstanding scientific current account and proven potential for scientific independence and leadership in research fields related to the objectives of the cluster.

Research topics may include:

• Procaryotic congenital immunity
• RNA networks
• Chemical biology of nucleic acids Candidates are expected to conduct internationally competitive research, actively contribute to the scientific activities of the NUCLEATE Cluster, to seek third-party funding and to contribute to local and international research networks. The participation in the teaching and training of young scientists (in English and/or German) is welcome. Research excellence, originality and the potential for scientific interactions within the cluster are central selection criteria.

Applicants should be in an early stage of their scientific career. Ideally, no more than four years have passed since the doctoral degree was awarded (or seven years in the field of medicine). The necessary qualifications include a doctoral degree in life sciences, computer science, pharmacy or medicine, an outstanding publication balance, international research experience and a strong commitment to the further development of nucleic acid research in experimental, technological, computer-assisted or translational areas. The successful candidates will receive attractive packages that include personnel and financial resources, access to the most modern infrastructure and innovative technologies, as well as integration into a lively interdisciplinary research environment. They benefit from close cooperation with leading researchers across the NUCLEATE Cluster network, access to joint scientific and technological platforms, as well as extensive offers for professional development and family-supporting services of host institutions. The positions are available at the earliest possible date. The appeals are first made for five years and can be extended for another year, subject to an evaluation and the applicable funding regulations. The NUCLEATE Cluster is committed to opportunities, diversity and inclusion and actively promotes equal opportunities. Women's applications are particularly desirable to increase the proportion of women in science and leadership. Applicants with disabilities are preferentially taken into account in accordance with the applicable regulations. International applications are expressly welcome.

General information Dr. Jacqueline Cordes NUCLEATE Cluster Office Phone: +[for phone number see the original ad] Email: [for e-mail see the original ad]

For more information on the respective hosting facilities, please contact: LMU: Prof. Dr. Veit Hornung, E-mail: [for e-mail see the original ad] TUM: Prof. Dr. Stefan Engelhardt, E-mail: [for e-mail see the original ad] JMU: Prof. Dr. Cynthia Sharma, E-mail: [for e-mail see the original ad]

Application Please submit your application, specifying the preferred host institution in the Subject line, as a single PDF file by e-mail to [for e-mail see the original ad] and add the following Documents with:

• Write (maximum 1 page) in which you present your motivation and fit for the position at the respective host institution
• CV including research and cooperation
• Full publication list, highlighting up to five key publications and a brief explanation of their meaning and contribution
• Research plan (maximum 3 pages)
• Contact details of at least three reference persons

Application deadline: 16 August 2026 By submitting your application, you agree to the processing of your data as part of the I agree with the selection procedure.

Joblocations:

80333 Munich, Arcisstr. 21, BAYERN, GERMANY