As one of Europe’s leading research universities, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) in Munich is committed to the highest international standards of excellence in research and teaching. Building on its more than 500-year-long tradition, it offers a broad spectrum that covers all areas of knowledge within its 18 Faculties, ranging from the humanities, law, economics and social sciences, to medicine and the natural sciences.

In alignment with this commitment to interdisciplinary excellence, LMU, Technische Universität München (TUM), and Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) have joined forces to establish the Cluster for Nucleic Acid Sciences and Technologies – NUCLEATE. This groundbreaking Cluster focuses on nucleic acids in all their biological dimensions: as active molecular agents, regulatory targets, and transformative tools in biotechnology and medicine. NUCLEATE unites researchers across disciplines and institutions to create a globally visible center for nucleic acid research and innovation.

To help build and shape this Cluster, we are seeking a highly committed and strategically minded:

Scientific manager

Cluster for Nucleic Acid Sciences and Technologies – NUCLEATE (m/f/d)

Full-time position (TV-L E14), based at the Gene Center of the LMU Munich

Start date: 01 January 2026 | Initial contract: two years, with possibility of extension up to 7 years

This position offers a unique opportunity for a scientist with experience in nucleic acid-related research and a strong interest in research strategy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and science policy. Based at LMU Munich, the selected candidate will play a central role in shaping the strategic direction, communication, and coordination of the Cluster across all partner sites (LMU, TUM, and JMU), working closely with Cluster leadership.

You will lead the Cluster Coordination Office, which includes local coordinators, administrative assistants, and a public relations manager. This team supports the day-to-day operations and ensures smooth communication and collaboration across institutions.

Your responsibilities:

• Support the strategic development of the Cluster and contribute to shaping its long-term scientific and structural vision
• Act as liaison between researchers, university administrations, funding agencies, and external partners
• Coordinate financial operations, including booking and budget tracking
• Oversee on-site personnel management and day-to-day administrative workflows
• Coordinate the preparation of scientific reports, strategic documents, and grant-related materials
• Support career development and implement targeted support measures for early-career scientists
• Organize and manage scientific events (e.g., symposia, workshops, retreats)
• Maintain and enhance internal communication structures within the Cluster

Your profile:

• Doctoral degree (PhD) in life sciences, chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field relevant to nucleic acid research
• International and postdoctoral research experience highly desirable
• Experience in the coordination or management of research projects, particularly in interdisciplinary or collaborative settings
• Strong conceptual and strategic thinking, with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and German, especially in scientific and administrative contexts
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex, deadline-driven tasks with strong organizational and time-management skills, while working effectively both independently and as part of a diverse, collaborative team

We offer:

• A key leadership role in an internationally visible and interdisciplinary Cluster of Excellence
• A vibrant research environment with close collaboration between leading institutions and outstanding researchers
• Diverse and meaningful responsibilities at the interface of research, strategy, and administration
• Professional development opportunities and access to continuing education programs
• A dynamic, team-oriented workplace with flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies
• Employment according to the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the German States (TV-L E14)

This full-time position (40 hours/week) will begin on 2026-01-01 and is initially limited to two years, with the possibility of extension up to seven years total, depending on performance and availability of funds. The position is based at LMU Munich and will report to the Cluster spokespersons.

We are committed to diversity, equal opportunity, and inclusion. Applications from individuals with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications.

Please submit your application, including the usual documents (CV, certificates, and transcripts), as a single PDF file by September 10, 2025 via e-mail to Emma Weber at the Gene Center and Department of Biochemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich: weber@genzentrum.lmu.de

For any inquiries, you are welcome to contact us at the same e-mail address.

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