Research Group Leader (f,m,div) in Plant Biotic Interactions

With its work, the Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) contributes to a better understanding of plant systems and thus to the development of sustainable and resilient horticulture. The IGZ conducts research at the interface between plants, humans and the environment. In doing so, we address systemic and global challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, urbanization and malnutrition. We provide scientifically sound recommendations for healthy agri-food systems and sustainable interactions with the environment. The IGZ brings together a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines. Employees with different backgrounds conduct research in national and international research co-operations. The IGZ is based in Großbeeren near Potsdam and near Berlin and is a member of the Leibniz Association.

The research in the research group Plant Biotic Interactions (PBI) is focussing on the role of plant metabolites and the genes coding for their production in plant-biotic interactions. We use an integrated approach in which we combine metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses with measures of plant and insect performance. The knowledge we generate provides the scientific basis for sustainable plant production and the reduction of pesticide use. Currently, this research group is headed by the Director of Research, Prof. Dr. Nicole M. van Dam. To allow her to focus on her directorial duties, we are looking for someone to take over the PBI leadership. Hence, we are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious

Research Group Leader (f,m,div) in Plant Biotic Interactions

Reference number: 02/2024/2

Employment will be initially for two years. A permanent position is being pursued upon a satisfactory evaluation of your performance. The salary will be based on qualification and research experience according to the wage agreement TV-L, salary domain east, up to pay scale 14, full time. The position is suitable for part-time work for at least 32 hours per week. IGZ will provide mentoring, leadership development and suitable resources so they successfully lead this research group and develop their own scientific career as well as of their group members.

Tasks include

• strategic development of a research program in chemical/molecular ecology of plant-biotic interactions
• independent grant acquisition for scientific research projects
• publication of research output in international Q1 peer-reviewed journals
• supervision of BSc, M.Sc. and PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and technicians
• project design, budget management, progress reporting, personnel and data management
• contribution to group leader meetings, strategic development and outreach activities at IGZ

We are looking for candidates with

• a PhD degree in (plant) biology or related fields with emphasis on chemical/molecular ecology of plant-biotic interactions
• at least three years of postdoctoral research experience in chemical/molecular plant interaction ecology
• a proven track record in obtaining third party funding for research projects
• a very good scientific publication record in the field of chemical and molecular ecology
• a proven track record in supervising MSc and PhD students
• very good proficiency in English (both oral and written)
• very good proficiently in German or willingness to acquire German language skills at B2 level or higher within 2 years

We offer

• an inspiring research environment, including state-of-the art research facilities for plant metabolomics and molecular analyses
• support to further develop your leadership and mentoring qualities as well as language courses
• flexible and family-friendly working time models and the possibility of mobile working (up to 50% of working time)
• a place of employment located close to Berlin and Potsdam
• subsidy for the company ticket for local public transport or the Germany ticket

Further information about the IGZ and the research group Plant Biotic Interactions can be found on the Internet at www.igzev.de. For questions, please contact: Prof. Nicole van Dam (vandam(at)igzev.de ; phone: +49-33701 - 78 105).

We encourage a healthy work-life balance. The IGZ attaches great importance to equal opportunities. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualifications. The IGZ embraces diversity in its workforce, and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, world view, disability and belief or ethnic origin. In an effort to increase the proportion of female employees in this area, we specifically urge women scientists to apply for the position.

To apply to this position, send a concise and specific motivation letter for this position plus a research statement (1 A4 max) specifying your vision to further develop and lead this research line with the research missions of IGZ. Also send your CV, names of two references, and copies of academic certificates. We prefer to receive applications by email to bewerbung(at)igzev.de in pdf format by 18.02.2024 . Our postal address is: Personalbüro, Institute for Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Theodor-Echtermeyer-Weg 1, D-14979 Großbeeren.

https://igzev.de