GROUP LEADER POSITIONS 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 two faculty candidates to lead independent research groups. Situated within the dynamic and interdisciplinary campus of the Vienna BioCenter, IMBA offers a vibrant and collaborative research environment supported by extensive scientific and administrative resources. Home to 2000 scientists from over 80 nationalities, with English as the working language, the Vienna BioCenter fosters curiosity-driven research across a broad spectrum of biological topics.

IMBA invites applications for two group leader positions as part of an open search in the life sciences. Candidates should possess an exceptional Ph.D. and post-doctoral track record in biology, biophysics or engineering. 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. Within the life sciences, we are particularly interested in areas such as germline biology, mobile genetic elements including virus biology, chromosome biology, as well as tissue-scale biology and synthetic biology. However, we encourage applications from any area in the life sciences. 

In addition, strong interpersonal skills are essential for providing leadership and guidance to team members for integrating into our collaborative institute culture. The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to team efforts is critical, along with a proactive and positive problem-solving mindset.  

WHY JOIN US  

IMBA group leaders establish their independent 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 vibrant research hub that is home to more than 2000 scientists from over 80 nations. Additionally, the Vienna BioCenter nurtures 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 collaborations and cross-disciplinary exchange.  

IMBA provides highly subsidized access to a broad array of core facilities including an animal house, bio-optics, mass spectrometry, genome editing, flow cytometry, electron microscopy, next generation sequencing, and high-performance computing. IMBA group leaders are fully independent positions similar to assistant professorships. The recruitment package includes a competitive salary, four fully funded positions (two PhD students, one postdoctoral researcher, one technician), and generous 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 amongst the most competitive research programs in Europe. IMBA group leaders have no teaching obligations but can 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.  

IMBA provides a highly supportive and family friendly working environment with dual-career support and guaranteed, subsidized onsite childcare for its faculty and staff. IMBA is committed to internationality, diversity and equality, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. 

IMBA is located in the heart of Vienna, consistently ranked as the#1 livable city 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 various destinations in Europe and beyond.  

HOW TO APPLY  

Applications should be submitted electronically by June 03, 2024 and include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae with a list of publication (including preprints), a brief summary of past achievements and a future research plan not exceeding three pages. We also ask you to provide the contact details of three referees who will submit a reference letter online.  In your publication list, please explain in a few sentences the relevance of your most important publications. 

Appointments will be based on scientific excellence and personal maturity. We aim to counteract gender imbalance and explicitly encourage women to apply. We likewise welcome applications from people living with disabilities, LGBT individuals, and people from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. 

For further questions please contact Lea Klement (she/her) at lea.klement(at)imba.oeaw.ac.at