The INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials in Saarbrücken, Germany, is an internationally leading center for materials research, a scientific partner to national and international research institutions, and a provider of research and development for companies throughout the world. The INM is an institute of the Leibniz Association and has about 250 employees. The INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Department of Materials Synthetic Biology, invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d) to work at the forefront of synthetic biology and living therapeutic materials. In this PhD project, you will transform engineered microorganisms into living therapeutic systems capable of producing and delivering therapeutic compounds. By integrating synthetic biology with advanced biomaterials, you will explore how material environments shape biological function, enabling engineered living therapeutics designed for controlled and effective in vitro drug delivery. The position is embedded in the Leibniz Science Campus on Living Therapeutic Materials (LSC-Lifemat) ( https://www.lsclifemat.de ) a highly interdisciplinary and international consortium bringing together synthetic biologists, materials scientists, microbiologists, and clinicians. Your work will directly contribute to shaping future therapies that bridge biology and materials science. The position is available immediately; a later start date is possible. Perform advanced molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning (e.g. Gibson assembly, restriction enzyme cloning) Generate and analyze engineered bacteria for therapeutic applications Produce, purify, and characterize proteins (IMAC, SEC, SDS-PAGE, Western blot, etc.) Assess bacterial longevity and viability using techniques such as FACS, microscopy, and spectrophotometry Collaborate on in vivo testing engineered bacteria in zebrafish models Analyze experimental data, prepare figures, contribute to scientific publications and present your results at meetings and conferences A master’s degree in biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, or a related field, or being close to completion of such a degree Strong practical experience in molecular cloning techniques Proven experience with prokaryotic protein expression, purification, and characterization Solid background in microbial culture and bioprocesses Self-motivation to work in an interdisciplinary, international research environment Very good written and spoken English Please note: Applicants are required to submit university transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s level, or equivalent) as part of the application. These will be considered during the evaluation process. The opportunity to pursue a PhD at the cutting edge of living therapeutic materials Integration into a highly visible, interdisciplinary research network (LSC-Lifemat) Close supervision and mentoring by experienced scientists in synthetic biology, protein engineering, and engineered living materials Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and strong support for scientific publishing and conference participation Excellent conditions for professional and personal development in an international environment