GROUP LEADER POSITION IN THE MOLECULAR LIFE SCIENCES

The Institute of Molecular Biotechnology (IMBA), one of Europe’s leading institutes for basic research in the life sciences, is seeking outstanding candidates for a faculty position. Located within the dynamic and interdisciplinary Vienna BioCenter, IMBA offers a vibrant, collaborative research environment supported by extensive scientific and administrative resources. The Vienna BioCenter is home to 2,000 scientists from over 80 nationalities, fostering curiosity-driven research across a broad spectrum of biological disciplines.

IMBA invites applications for a group leader position as part of an open search in the life sciences. We are looking for a candidate with an exceptional track record in biology or biophysics. Your research proposal should showcase innovation, ideally combining scientific questions that advance the current state of the art with technological advances that offer new insight into biological processes. While applications from all areas of the life sciences are welcome, research in germline biology, genome dynamics (including chromosome biology), tissue-scale biology, and synthetic biology is considered particularly fitting.

Strong interpersonal skills are essential for this role, as you will provide leadership and guidance to your team while integrating into IMBA’s collaborative culture. The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to team efforts is critical, along with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset.

 

WHY JOIN US  

As a group leader at IMBA, you will lead a research group in one of Europe’s most vibrant life science centers. Together with the Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), the Gregor Mendel Institute (GMI), and the Max Perutz Labs, IMBA is part of the Vienna BioCenter, a research hub that is home to more than 2,000 scientists from over 80 nations. The Vienna BioCenter also supports a growing biotech scene with over 30 companies. Through joint symposia, seminars, and scientific events, the Vienna BioCenter fosters extensive interactions among research groups and across various research fields, providing abundant opportunities for collaboration and cross-disciplinary exchange.

IMBA provides highly subsidized access to a broad array of outstanding core facilities, including comparative medicine, bio-optics, mass spectrometry, flow cytometry, electron microscopy, next-generation sequencing, and high-performance computing. Groups receive core-funded positions, corresponding consumables and investment budgets. The remuneration package includes financial support for relocation and installation.

IMBA participates in prestigious international programs, including the Vienna BioCenter PhD program, the VIP2 postdoctoral program, and the Max Birnstiel summer school, which are among the most competitive research programs in Europe. Group leaders at IMBA have no teaching obligations but may engage in teaching activities through the University and the Medical University of Vienna. The working language at IMBA and the entire Vienna BioCenter is English.

A highly supportive and family-friendly working environment is provided at IMBA, including dual-career support and guaranteed, subsidized onsite childcarefor its faculty and staff. Located in the heart of Vienna, IMBA benefits from being in a city consistently ranked as the #1 most livable in the world by Mercer and The Economist. Vienna offers a lively cultural scene, affordability, excellent public services (including public transport, schools and parks), and convenient access to destinations across Europe and beyond.

 

HOW TO APPLY  

Applications should be submitted electronically by May 18, 2025 and must include the following:

  • A cover letter

  • A curriculum vitae with a list of publications (including preprints)

  • A brief summary of past achievements and a future research plan (maximum three pages)

  • Contact details for three referees who will submit reference letters online

In your publication list, please include a few sentences explaining the significance of your most important publications.

 

Appointments will be based on scientific excellence and personal qualifications. IMBA values diversity and strongly encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

 

For further inquiries, please contact Lea Klement at lea.klement(at)imba.oeaw.ac.at.