Head of an Independent Research Division in AI enabled Mechanistic Systems Biology (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.

Shape the Next Generation of Mechanistic Systems Biology

The Max Delbrück Center is seeking an internationally outstanding scientist to establish and lead an independent research department in the field of AI-driven mechanistic systems biology.

The department will develop innovative approaches that combine state-of-the-art deep learning models of genomes, cells and/or tissues with mechanistic, causal and biologically interpretable models. The goal is to advance our ability to understand, predict and ultimately influence complex biological processes in health and disease.

We are looking for a scientist with an excellent research track record and demonstrated scientific leadership who combines expertise in computational biology, artificial intelligence, mathematics and/or quantitative genomics with experimental and translational biomedical research. We particularly welcome research approaches that closely integrate computational models with novel experimental and/or patient-derived data.

As Head of the Research Department, you will develop an independent and internationally competitive research program, foster interdisciplinary collaborations across the MDC and beyond, and build and advance a strategically important research area with long-term impact.

Job Description

Your Role and Responsibilities:

In this scientific leadership position, you will shape a strategically important research area at the Max Delbrück Center and contribute to its future scientific development.

• Establish and provide scientific leadership for an independent research department at the MDC
• Develop and implement an ambitious, internationally competitive research strategy
• Assume responsibility for the department’s personnel and financial management
• Lead, mentor and support the professional development of scientists
• Successfully secure competitive national and international research funding
• Establish and expand interdisciplinary collaborations within the MDC and with national and international research partners
• Strengthen collaboration across computational, experimental and translational research
• Actively contribute to the scientific and strategic development of the MDC

Requirements

Your Profile:

You hold a doctoral degree (PhD, Dr. med., MD/PhD or an equivalent academic qualification) and have the scientific qualifications and achievements expected for appointment to a W3 professorship at a German university.
In addition, you bring:

• Outstanding scientific achievements and an internationally visible research profile
• Demonstrated leadership experience in academic research and in leading scientific teams
• A strong track record in securing competitive national and/or international research funding
• Extensive experience in mentoring and supporting the development of scientists
• Experience in the strategic leadership and development of major scientific programs and research structures
• An internationally recognized scientific reputation, demonstrated, for example, through high-impact publications, invited lectures, awards, scientific leadership roles and collaborations

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

In Addition, You Will Benefit From:

• Excellent scientific infrastructure and state-of-the-art core facilities
• An attractive start-up and research support package
• Competitive remuneration commensurate with the responsibilities and qualifications of the position
• Integration into the Helmholtz Association and Berlin’s dynamic biomedical research environment
• The opportunity to play a key role in shaping a strategically important research area at the MDC
• A secure and stable working environment
• Flexible working hours and childcare support
• Opportunities for mobile working
• An attractive green campus, easily accessible by bicycle, public transport or car
• Free use of Nextbike between Berlin-Buch S-Bahn station and the campus
• Subsidized public transport and discounts at the campus cafeteria
• Workplace health management, including access to a fitness center
• Additional health services, including flu vaccinations, vision screenings and workplace ergonomics consultations