people in a lab
Heidelberg/Mannheim

Engineer specializing in the development of molecular biology methods and the zebrafish facility (m/f/d)

The Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association aims to transform tomorrow’s medicine through our discoveries of today. At locations in Berlin-Buch, Berlin-Mitte, Heidelberg and Mannheim, our researchers harness interdisciplinary collaboration to decipher the complexities of disease at the systems level – from molecules and cells to organs and the entire organism. Through academic, clinical, and industry partnerships, as well as global networks, we strive to translate biological discoveries into applications that enable the early detection of deviations from health, personalize treatment, and ultimately prevent disease. First founded in 1992, the Max Delbrück Center today inspires and nurtures a diverse talent pool of 1,800 people from over 70 countries. We are 90 percent funded by the German federal government and 10 percent by the state of Berlin.

To support our research team in cardiovascular developmental and vascular biology, we are seeking a highly motivated Research Engineer with expertise in molecular biology method development and zebrafish facility management. In this role, you will contribute to the development and implementation of innovative experimental approaches and play a key role in establishing and operating our zebrafish facility.

Job Description


Method Development and Experimental Research

• Development, implementation, and optimization of complex
   engineering processes and systems in molecular biology research
• Development, implementation, and optimization of molecular biology,
   genetic, and imaging techniques for
   research projects in the field of cardiovascular diseases
• Application of modern genome-editing methods, as well as the
  development and characterization of genetic zebrafish models
• Conducting, analyzing, and documenting complex experimental work
• Contributing to the standardization and quality assurance of laboratory processes
• Coordinating experimental requirements for the research group’s projects
• Providing technical support and guidance to scientific and technical staff
• Selecting, implementing, and maintaining scientific
   equipment and technical systems
• Contributing to scientific publications and research projects

Establishment and Operation of the Zebrafish Facility
• Establishment, organization, and technical development of a zebrafish facility
• Maintenance and optimization of aquaculture and recirculating systems
• Planning, implementation, and documentation of breeding programs, as well as management of genetic lines
• Ensuring compliance with animal welfare, hygiene, and quality standards
• Select, implement, and maintain scientific equipment and technical systems
• Contribute to scientific publications and collaborative research projects

Requirements

  • A successfully completed degree in biotechnology, bioengineering, or a comparable field, or a completed apprenticeship as a technical assistant (TA/BTA) with relevant professional experience
  • Several years of professional experience in a research laboratory, ideally in an international research environment
  • Very good knowledge of modern molecular biology and genetic methods
  • In-depth knowledge of complex aquaculture and recirculating systems
  • Extensive experience with genome editing and zebrafish models
  • Excellent knowledge of modern imaging and microscopy techniques
  • High level of expertise in method development, troubleshooting, and quality assurance; excellent English skills and good written and spoken German
  • Ability to work independently, in a structured and solution-oriented manner, as well as strong teamwork and communication skills

We offer

  • international working environment with communication in English and German
  • interesting career opportunities and a range of opportunities for further qualification and training
  • Compatibility of family and career certified by the workandfamily audit (“berufundfamilie audit”)
  • Support for "New Berliners" through the MDC Welcome & Family Office

You also benefit from:

  • a remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the federal public service (TVöD-Bund), including additional company pension schemes
  • a secure job
  • flexible working hours and childcare support
  • the possibility of mobile working
  • an idyllic green campus, which is easily accessible by bicycle, public transport or car
  • free use of Nextbike from the Buch S-Bahn station to the campus
  • Subsidy for the job ticket as well as discounts in the campus canteen
  • On-campus health and fitness center
  • additional health benefits such as flu vaccination, eye test, ergonomics advice at the workplace

Please get in touch with any questions

Franziska Hasslinger-Pajtler
HI-TAC

Facts & figures

Workplace
HI-TAC Mannheim/Heidelberg
Salary
Die Vergütung erfolgt nach TVöD Bund, je nach Vorliegen der persönlichen Voraussetzungen bis Entgeltgruppe 11
Desired starting date
September 01, 2026
Limitation
Fixed Term
Die Stelle ist auf 2 Jahre befristet, mit der Option einer Entfristung.
Team
HI-TAC
Application Period
July 27, 2026
Employment volume
Full Time
Die Anzahl der Wochenstunden beträgt 39 Stunden.
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Please use our online portal and submit your application including a cover letter, CV (without photo, age and information about your family status) and other relevant attachments.

If you have a foreign degree, please submit proof of the recognition of your Master's degree in Germany with your application. The proof can be determined via the anabin database and can be submitted as a PDF attachment to the application. Further information can be found at Recognition of Degrees and Achievments.

For information on fair mobility, click here: https://www.fair-labour-mobility.eu/.
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Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Excellence in science and innovation depends on a diverse, inclusive, and respectful environment. At the Max Delbrück Center, we are committed to creating such a space — one where individuals from all backgrounds can grow scientifically, professionally, and personally. As a values-driven research institute, we recognize that diversity of thought, experience, and identity is essential to our mission: advancing biomedical research to transform tomorrow’s medicine. We foster a culture of curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and shared responsibility for equity and openness. We welcome applications from individuals of all genders, cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences, especially those who bring new perspectives and a collaborative spirit to our international team. Applicants are considered based on qualifications and experience, free from discrimination. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and will ensure appropriate support is provided.