Research Associate at TLZ-RT at Fraunhofer ISC

Fraunhofer Karriere; Bayern; On-site; EUR 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Fraunhofer Translation Center for Regenerative Therapies (TLZ-RT) at Fraunhofer ISC in Würzburg seeks a Research Associate to join the Human-Relevant in vitro Models & Test Systems department. Begin January 1, 2027, contributing to applied R&D projects with a focus on skin-related 3D models and cell-based test systems.

You will perform cell culture, develop assays, analyze experiments, and collaborate with industry and research partners to advance methods and publications.

Qualifications

• Completed university degree in biology/biotechnology/biomedicine or related field.
• Hands-on experience in cell culture and in developing, establishing, and applying cell-based in vitro models and test systems (ideally 3D tissue and barrier models, skin-focused).
• Experience with primary cells; knowledge of human stem cell culture and organoid work is a plus.
• Experience with immunohistochemical and/or molecular biology methods is desirable.
• Knowledge of functional cell-based assays for viability, cytotoxicity, or barrier integrity is a plus.
• Experience in microscopic analysis of cell/tissue models and evaluation of microscopic images.
• Experience in applied research and development.
• Meticulous, structured work style with strong organizational skills.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Fluency in German and English (spoken and written).

Responsibilities

• Develop, establish, and apply complex in vitro models and cell-based test systems, especially 3D tissue and barrier models with a skin focus.
• Independently perform lab work including cell culture (including stem cell and organoid culture) and development and execution of assays.
• Plan, document, and analyze experiments; ensure scientific quality and reproducibility of results.
• Collaborate with industry and research partners on projects and support project management in design, execution, and reporting.
• Prepare experimental results for reports, presentations, and publications.
• Support further development of the department’s scientific/technological portfolio by establishing new methods and technologies.
• Collaborate closely with TLZ-RT staff and other Fraunhofer ISC departments.

Skills

Teamwork & communication

Education

Master's degree in biology/biotechnology/biomedicine or related field

Job description

Dr. Daniela Zdzieblo

If you have any questions about the position, please contact:

Dr. Daniela Zdzieblo

[e-mail]

The Fraunhofer Translation Center for Regenerative Therapies (TLZ-RT) at Fraunhofer ISC in Würzburg develops innovative solutions for the life sciences sector at the intersection of biology, materials science, laboratory automation, and biomedical translation. The focus is on cell-based tissue models and test systems, novel biomaterials, and scalable production processes for preclinical and clinical applications. Our partners include companies from the medical technology, cosmetics, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as clinical institutions. For our Human-Relevant in vitro Models & Test Systems department, we are looking for a Research Associate to join our team in Würzburg starting January 1, 2027, and contribute to application-oriented research and development projects.

Be part of change

• develop, establish, and apply complex in vitro models and cell-based test systems, particularly 3D tissue and barrier models, with a focus on the skin.
• independently carry out laboratory work, including cell culture (also stem cell and organoid culture) and the development and performance of assays.
• plan, document, and analyze experiments, and ensure the scientific quality and reproducibility of the results.
• collaborate actively with industry and research partners on projects and support project management in the design, implementation, and reporting of projects.
• prepare experimental results for reports, presentations, and publications.
• support the further development of the department’s scientific and technological portfolio, e.g., by establishing new methods and technologies.
• collaborate closely and interdisciplinarily with the department’s staff as well as with other departments at TLZ-RT and Fraunhofer ISC.

What You Contribute

• a completed university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in biology, biotechnology, biomedicine, or a related field.
• substantial hands‑on experience in cell culture and, ideally, in developing, establishing, and applying cell-based in vitro models and test systems, preferably 3D tissue and barrier models with a focus on skin.
• experience working with primary cells; knowledge of human stem cell culture and organoid work is a plus.
• hands‑on experience in characterizing cell and tissue models using immunohistochemical and/or molecular biology methods is desirable.
• knowledge of functional cell‑based assays, such as those used to investigate cell viability, cytotoxicity, or barrier integrity, is an asset.
• experience in the microscopic analysis of cell and tissue models, as well as in the evaluation and analysis of microscopic images.
• experience in applied research and development.
• a meticulous, structured approach to work and strong organizational skills.
• strong teamwork and communication skills.
• fluency in spoken and written German and English.

Please submit the following documents in either German or English:

• a detailed CV.
• a cover letter (maximum one page) explaining why you are a suitable candidate for this position, particularly highlighting your relevant laboratory and methodological experience, your interest in applied research, and how these relate to your professional background.
• academic transcripts and relevant certificates.

What We Offer

• varied research projects with opportunities for independent scientific work in a dynamic, innovation-driven research field.
• collaboration on application-oriented projects with industry partners and clinical institutions—from development through to implementation.
• a highly qualified, interdisciplinary team working in an innovation-driven environment.
• a strong network within the Fraunhofer Society, both within and across institutes.
• individual training and development opportunities.
• benefits in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD), as well as flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.

The weekly work schedule is 39 hours. The position is a one-year fixed-term contract and may also be filled on a part-time basis. Employment, compensation, and benefits are based on the Collective Bargaining Agreement for the Public Sector (TVöD). Compensation is determined based on qualifications and assigned duties, up to Pay Grade 13 of the TVöD. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD).

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

For questions regarding the application:

Ms. Katja Dill

[e-mail]

Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC

www.isc.fraunhofer.de