We are now inviting applications for the position of Group Leader (f/m/d) Appointments will initially be for six years (3 + 3). We offer a competitive salary according to the TV-L pay scale, a comprehensive pension scheme, and access to medical, educational, and social benefits, including an on-campus childcare facility. Your Role As a group leader, you will establish and lead an independent research program that is both ambitious and innovative, aligning with the overall focus of the RVZ. Your research should ideally complement and expand ongoing collaborative initiatives at the University of Würzburg, such as: DFG Collaborative Research Center/Transregio 387 "UbiCancer" CRC 1525 "Cardio-immune Interfaces" CRC 1583 "Decisions in Infectious Diseases" and the upcoming Cluster of Excellence "NUCLEATE - Cluster for Nucleic Acid Sciences and Technologies" (launching 2026) The RVZ provides early-career investigators with a highly supportive, collaborative environment, a generous start-up package, substantial core funding, and limited teaching duties - enabling full dedication to scientific research and team development. Your Profile We are seeking outstanding candidates with: A PhD in the natural sciences (or equivalent qualification). A clear, original, and forward-looking research plan, outlining the scientific background, key questions, methodologies, and long-term goals of your work. Demonstrated scientific excellence, creativity, and potential for leadership in an interdisciplinary research environment. Why Join Us The RVZ offers an inclusive, international, and dynamic research environment, embedded within a rich local network that includes: The Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) The Max Planck Research Group in Systems Immunology The Biocenter, the Institute for Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), and the University Hospital Würzburg The University of Würzburg provides extensive support services for international researchers and their families, including the Welcome Centre, International Office, Family Services, and the Professional Development Network (see here). The RVZ is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from women and candidates with disabilities, who will be given preference in cases of equal qualification. Appointments are made solely on merit. Contact for Informal Inquiries Prof. Dr. Katrin Heinze Email: Application Please submit your application as a single pdf file via email to including, in this order: Cover letter (1 page) - outlining your motivation and fit for the position Curriculum Vitae - highlighting research achievements, leadership, and collaborations List of publications highlighting five key papers with brief statements on their significance and your contributions Research plan (max. 3 pages) Contact details of at least three referees We look forward to receiving your application. Deadline: December 31, 2025 Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging (RVZ) University of Würzburg Prof. Dr. Katrin Heinze Prof. Dr. Pedro Friedmann Angeli Prof. Dr. Christophe Zimmer Josef-Schneider-Str. 2 / Haus D Würzburg, Germany Email: Phone -931-31-88128