Independent Research Group Leaders (f/m/d)
The Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS) and the newly funded Cluster of Excellence SCALE (SubCellular Architecture of LifE) are looking for several
Independent Research Group Leaders (f/m/d)
(for theoretical and computational research at FIAS)
The primary goal of the initiative is to create Digital Twins of sub-cellular architecture to map and simulate the internal structure of cells with unprecedented detail. By integrating diverse fields, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of key biological processes and their relevance to major diseases like bacterial resistance, neurodegeneration, and inflammation.
About FIAS
The Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS) is a hub for theoretical and computational research dedicated to solving complex scientific challenges. We pioneer an interdisciplinary approach, leveraging advanced theoretical methods in the natural and life sciences and computational methods to model complex self-organizing systems of nature.
https://fias.uni-frankfurt.de
About SCALE
The SCALE Cluster of Excellence is a dynamic research initiative in Frankfurt focused on the fundamental principles of cellular self-organization. We investigate how molecular interactions give rise to complex cellular functions. Our work is highly interdisciplinary, bringing together expertise from biochemistry, molecular biology, physics, and computational science.
The successful candidates are expected to participate in further developing their scientific programs by pursuing fundamental research using theoretical methods in the molecular cell biology and life sciences. Research that aligns with the objectives of local research consortia on Cellular Biophysics, RNA Biology, Macromolecular Complexes, Membrane Biophysics, Organelle Biology, Neurological Disorders, Bacterial Cell Envelope or Self-organizing principles of subcellular organization is considered a benefit. A collaborative and open-science attitude is expected.
We expect candidates to establish an innovative and internationally competitive research program in at least one of the following areas:
- Modeling Biological and Biochemical Systems: Development of mathematical, multi-scale, and agent-based models to link molecular and cellular behavior. Integration of experimental data (omics, imaging, spectroscopy) into predictive computational frameworks. Application of advanced computational techniques - finite element modeling, triangulated meshes, modeling of protein-protein or protein-RNA interactions, and statistical inference to explore emergent properties in living systems.
- AI and Machine Learning for Data-Driven Discovery: Design and training of deep learning and generative models to analyze large-scale imaging and omics datasets. Application of AI to automate pattern recognition, structure reconstruction, and hypothesis generation. Application of cutting-edge machine learning to uncover new insights into molecular and subcellular organization.
- Large Language Models and Human-Machine Interaction: Development of LLM-based tools that translate natural language queries into computational workflows. Creation of interfaces enabling non-programmers to simulate, analyze, and interpret biological data seamlessly. Integration of LLMs with existing scientific computing and molecular simulation frameworks.
- Integrative Structural Cell Biology: Integration of Structural Biology and Software Engineering. Integration of multimodal datasets (X-ray, Cryo-EM, VolumeEM, super-resolution, single-molecule spectroscopy, spatial Omics) for comprehensive molecular modeling. Development of visualization, analysis, and data management software to support large collaborative studies.
- Digital twins: Conceptional research on the generation of digital twins. Application and evaluation of digital twins in life sciences. Research on interfaces between cells and informatics. Computational prediction and control of cellular behavior.
The position
We offer a competitive group leader salary and appointment for 5 years, funding for two PhD students, and running costs. Co-affiliation with Goethe University Frankfurt will be considered. Successful candidates will be based at FIAS and integrated into the SCALE Cluster and the vibrant Research Campus Riedberg, that offers advanced infrastructure for computational biology.
FIAS is committed to fostering a workplace culture that promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social origin, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation. Severely disabled persons with equal qualifications will be given priority.
Please submit your application including CV, research statement of past achievements and future plans (no more than 4 pages) and a list of annotated top 5 publications by Jan 18, 2026.
Potential candidates will be invited for a presentation and interview on March 2, 2026 and are welcomed to participate in the Giersch International Conference & SCALE Kick Off Symposium 2026: https://indico.global/event/16174/
For further questions, please contact:
Scientific issues:
Prof. Dr. Roberto Covino (covino@fias.uni-frankfurt.de)
Administrative issues:
Meike Taplik (hr@fias.uni-frankfurt.de)
Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS)
Ruth-Moufang-Str. 1, 60438 Frankfurt am Main
