Head of Bioinformatics Facility

MAX PLANCK INSTITUTEOF IMMUNOBIOLOGY AND EPIGENETICSFREIBURGFundamental research in two key areas of modern biologyWorking timefulltimeLimitationunlimitedPay scalemax. E14WE ARE LOOKING FOR AHead of Bioinformatics Facility (m/f/div)The Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics (MPI-IE) in Freiburg invites applicants for the position of Head of Bioinformatics.The position is to be filled as soon as possible and is unlimited.YOUR TASKS:We are seeking an experienced and creative scientist with a strong background in bioinformatics, computational biology, or computer science, and with demonstrated expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) — particularly in large language models (LLMs), deep learning, and multimodal data integration. The ideal candidate will be able to design and apply AI/ML approaches to high-dimensional datasets, including single-cell omics, chromatin profiling, and advanced imaging.The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop and lead their own independent research project and build a small research team by hiring PhD students and Postdocs. In parallel, they will oversee the development and implementation of computational strategies to support and enhance research activities across the institute.Your Responsibilities:Lead and further develop the Bioinformatics Facility in collaboration with research groups at the institute.Implement AI-driven approaches, including the use of LLMs and generative models, to analyze and integrate genomic, transcriptomic, and imaging data.Develop and maintain pipelines and computational infrastructure for large-scale biological data analysis.Supervise and mentor a team of bioinformaticians and data scientists.Contribute to strategic initiatives in AI-based data analysis, training, and computational innovation.YOUR QUALIFICATIONS:PhD (or equivalent experience) in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, or related fields.Proven expertise in machine learning, LLMs, or deep learning architectures and their application to biological or biomedical data.Experience in managing computational resources and supporting diverse research teams.Excellent communication and collaboration skills across experimental and computational disciplines.WE OFFER:Located in a region that connects Germany, France and Switzerland, our institute offers an international research environment with outstanding infrastructure facilities and a positive working atmosphere that places a high value on work-life balance.Payment according to TVöD up to a maximum of E14 if the collectively agreed and personal requirements are fulfilledA stimulating, international and interdisciplinary research environment within the Max Planck SocietyFull institutional support to establish an independent research programAccess to high-performance computing infrastructure and world-class experimental collaborationsSocial benefits in line with public service (VBL)Additional performance-related remuneration componentProfessional training and development opportunitiesGood public transport connections and subsidy for job ticketChallenging work in a modern working environmentMobile working at a location of your choice within Germany is possible up to a maximum of 40% of the regular weekly working hours in justified cases.Catering provided by the institute's own cafeteria on site and shopping facilities within walking distanceDual-Career-Support and Welcome-ServiceFamily-friendly offers (affiliated day care center at the institute, parent-child room, breastfeeding room)Max Planck Institute forImmunobiology and EpigeneticsHR DepartmentStübeweg 5179108 FreiburgFor informal inquiries, please contact Prof. Nicola Iovino iovino@ie-freiburg.mpg.deAPPLICATION DEADLINE:Have we sparked your interest? Please apply with your complete application documents (cover letter, CV, contact information for references) via ouronline applicantionportal at www.ie-freiburg.mpg.de. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.The Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics (MPI-IE) in Freiburg, Germany is an interdisciplinary research institution that conducts basic research in two key areas of modern biology: Immunobiology and Epigenetics. Central questions address the molecular basis of cell type identities, as they are regulated during immune cell differentiation, metabolic response and epigenetic chromatin adaptation.We value and promote diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities, so we welcome applications from all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from severely disabled people. We would also like to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented and therefore expressly encourage women to apply.Max Planck Institute forImmunobiology and EpigeneticsHR DepartmentStübeweg 5179108 FreiburgFor informal inquiries, please contact Prof. Nicola Iovino iovino@ie-freiburg.mpg.de