Junior Research Group Leader

Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena

07743 Jena

Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-12-07

Overview

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena invites applications for a Junior Research Group Leader Position within the Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse.” The full-time junior group leader position is available from March 2027 and is initially limited to four years; an extension might be possible subject to performance and availability of funds. The University emphasizes equal opportunity, with a preference for female researchers, and discusses part-time contracts and special status for disabled applicants. Applications should be submitted by 07.12.2026 via the online form. Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, detailed CV, a research proposal (max. 4 pages), a list of publications and successful grant applications, contact details of two references, and copies of academic certificates. The Cluster of Excellence integrates ecological and medical research to advance microbiome science and aims to support independent research within its defined Research Areas: SIGNALS, STRUCTURES, TRANSITIONS.

Establish and lead an independent junior research group and develop your own research agenda
Build and lead a research team, supervise early-career researchers, and create a stimulating and supportive research environment
Engage in scientific exchange and active involvement in the dynamic Microverse community
Develop competitive research proposals and securing external funding is advantageous
Integrate into a highly visible Cluster of Excellence with an internationally competitive and interdisciplinary research community
Pursue original research directions within the Cluster’s overarching scientific framework and develop new directions within the Cluster’s Research Areas

A PhD and postdoctoral experience in one of the Cluster’s research fields
A strong research track record, demonstrating research excellence, a distinguished research profile and creativity
A convincing contribution to at least one of the Cluster's Research Areas, and an ambitious research vision with the potential to advance the field
The ability to build and lead a research team, supervise early-career researchers, and create a stimulating and supportive research environment
A strong commitment to scientific exchange and active engagement in the dynamic Microverse community
Experience in developing competitive research proposals and securing external funding is advantageous

Dedicated funding for your own position, a postdoc and a doctoral researcher position, and for research consumables
Remuneration in accordance with TV-L (salary scale E14)
Integration into a highly visible Cluster of Excellence with an internationally competitive and interdisciplinary research community
Access to state-of-the-art facilities, relevant infrastructure and shared scientific resources
30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31
The full-time junior group leader position available from March 2027, initially four years with possible extension
Equal opportunity employer; part-time contracts can be discussed; disabled persons with comparable qualifications receive preferential status

The full-time junior group leader position is available from March 2027 and is initially limited to four years; an extension might be possible subject to performance and availability of funds
The University particularly encourages applications from female researchers
Part-time contracts can be discussed; disabled persons with comparable qualifications will receive preferential status

Apply by 07.12.2026 using the online form
Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, a detailed curriculum vitae, a research proposal (max. 4 pages), a list of publications and successful grant applications, contact details of two references, and copies of academic certificates
For information on data privacy and information for applicants, refer to Data privacy and information for applicants