Laboratory Officer
EMBL Heidelberg, Germany
Application deadline: 31 Aug 2026
The Laboratory Officer contributes to the delivery of the Mahamid Group’s research, technology development and training objectives by managing the experimental laboratory operations and providing specialist expertise. The role works closely with the Principal Investigator and Group members, and is responsible for effective operations through coordination of workflows, equipment, inventories, procurement, and other laboratory resources. The position also encompasses design and execution of experiments upon request of the Principal Investigator to support research within the Group and with its international collaborations. The Laboratory Officer participates in the establishment of new methods, troubleshooting complex technical issues, promoting reproducible research practices, and knowledge transfer. Operating with high degree of autonomy, the role anticipates operational requirements, resolves technical and logistical challenges, and contributes to organizational objectives through effective collaboration, communication, and decision-making.
Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, including dedicated instrumentation maintenance and resource planning in close collaboration with the Principal Investigator.
- Oversee responsible documentation of laboratory resources, inventories, and experimental protocols.
- Coordinate interventions with institutional and external technical, maintenance, and safety services, and act as the primary laboratory contact during operational or emergency situations.
- Support technical training and guidance to trainees, PhD fellows and postdoctoral researchers and collaborators.
- Develop and implement new experimental approaches to support reproducible and high-quality research.
- Facilitate and support collaborative activities with academic and industry partners.
- Oversee planning and organisation of key Group activities, including Group retreats, to support an effective and collaborative Group culture.
- Contribute to the Group’s and EMBL’s training activities and courses as a tutor.
Skills, Experience and Qualifications
You have
- PhD qualification in biology, biophysics, biochemistry or related field.
- Research experience in a cutting-edge scientific environment.
- Strong knowledge of molecular biology and/or cell biology.
- Demonstrated experience in cryo-focused ion beam preparations and cryo-electron tomography of biological secimens.
- Excellent organizational skills, ability to manage competing priorities and delivering outcomes with a high degree of autonomy.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with excellent written and spoken English.
You may also have
- Postdoctoral research experience in relevant disciplines, or experience in a similar laboratory management or coordination role.
- Expertise in fluorescence microscopy, correlative cryogenic light and electron microscopy, quantitative image analysis and/or cryo-electron tomography data processing.
- Experience working in an international or multicultural environment.
- Proficiency in German.
Important application information
We strongly encourage early applications. Please submit a cover letter and CV as a combined PDF, in that order. Include the names and contact details of 2-3 references. Pre-screen interviews will be conducted, with promising candidates invited to a full interview onsite at EMBL Heidelberg in September/October 2026. References will be contacted for support letters during the pre-screening phase.
Deadline: 31 August 2026
For more information and to apply, please see here.
