Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) - Optofluidic Experiment Automation

Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers; Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible hours

Remote work options

30 days annual leave

Career development

Job summary

KIT in Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen is seeking an Optofluidic Experiment Automation Scientist to develop and integrate tool‑using AI agents with established optofluidic and microscopy setups. You will build robust Python interfaces, APIs and instrument‑control services for autonomous acquisition, actuation and feedback in experimental workflows.

The role combines quantitative image analysis, machine learning and feedback control to enable adaptive experiments and autonomous scientific data

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field; strong Python and lab automation experience.
• Experience with optofluidics, microscopy or related lab instrument control.
• Interest in agentic AI and autonomous experimentation a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and integrate tool‑using AI agents with optical setups.
• Build Python interfaces, APIs and instrument-control services.
• Advance adaptive experiments using ML, feedback control and image analysis.
• Publish methods and results with interdisciplinary team.

Skills

Python programming

Lab automation

Machine learning

Computer vision

Education

PhD degree

Tools

APIs

Instrument control

LLM-based agents

Job description

Optofluidic Experiment Automation Scientist

We develop robust optofluidic experiments that use light-driven flows to manipulate cells and microscopic objects. Our next step is to connect these platforms with AI agents – potentially including Hermes‑like tool‑using agents and multi‑agent systems – to plan experiments, operate instruments, analyse outcomes and improve subsequent actions. Help us turn reliable laboratory hardware into autonomous scientific discovery systems.

Your role

• Develop and integrate tool‑using AI agents and multi‑agent workflows with established optofluidic and microscopy setups.
• Build robust Python interfaces, APIs and instrument‑control services for acquisition, actuation and experimental feedback.
• Combine quantitative image analysis, machine learning, feedback control and optimisation to enable adaptive experiments and autonomous scientific data generation.
• Develop experimental planning and agent evaluation with safeguards, logging, reproducible protocols and systematic handling of failures.
• Work with an interdisciplinary team and publish new methods and scientific results in biophotonics and Physical AI.

Your profile

• PhD in physics, biophysics, mechatronics, robotics, engineering, computer sciences or related field.
• Strong Python programming skills, quantitative and mathematical reasoning and experience developing or automating scientific systems.
• Experience in at least one of laboratory automation, instrument control, robotics, computer vision, feedback control, biophysics or machine learning.
• Solid analytical skills, independent problem‑solving, collaborative mindset and excellent English communication.
• Interest in agentic AI, autonomous experimentation and scientific discovery; experience with LLM‑based agents, MCP/API tools or multi‑agent systems is a plus – not a prerequisite.
• Optics or biophotonics experience is welcome but not required: outstanding candidates from adjacent fields are encouraged to apply.

We offer

• Science for Impact: Engage with topics of societal relevance — in an excellent scientific environment that enables change.
• Flexible Working Hours: Take advantage of flexible‑hours schemes, remote‑work options, and a 30‑day annual leave entitlement to achieve an optimal work‑life balance.
• Career‑Building and Developmental Opportunities: We provide you with a structured onboarding program, a broad spectrum of continuing‑education options, and personalised support, thereby fostering your individual growth.
• Family‑friendliness: The “KIT‑Family +” program assists you in reconciling work and family life by offering childcare services, holiday activities, a parent‑child office space, and assistance with caring for relatives.
• Stay Healthy: Under the motto “Fit at KIT – Body,Mind andSoul,” we promote your well‑being through fitness classes and mental‑health programmes.
• Individualised Extra Benefits: Enjoy a corporate pension (VBL), a €25 monthly contribution toward a JobTicket BW, plus a broad selection of cultural and recreational programmes.

Job location Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (and Karlsruhe) Salary Salary category 13 TV-L; classification is based on personal and professional qualifications. Contract duration 2 years

For technical information, please contact Prof. Dr. Moritz Kreysing [e-mail] 0721 608-28798

If you have general questions about the application process, please contact Sylvia Kaiser Personalservice (PSE) [e-mail] [phone]

At KIT we value the diversity of our employees; different perspectives and backgrounds enrich our work. We therefore welcome applications from all candidates. Women are especially encouraged to apply. Applications from recognized severely disabled individuals are given preferential consideration when qualifications are equal. Application up to: 2026-11-27 Job posting number : 426/2026

Tagged as: Life Sciences