Postdoctoral researcher (m/f/d) in Stem Cell Biology /Conservation Biology

Berlin-Buch | Max Delbrück Center

The Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association is an international biomedical research center dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms of health and disease with the goal to devise new diagnostics and medicines. The MDC is a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest scientific organization, and offers an engaging research environment with cutting-edge research infrastructure. Currently, ~1250 employees and ~500 guest scientists work at the Berlin-Buch and Berlin-Mitte campuses. Our diverse workforce is a core strength that inspires creativity and innovation at the MDC.

The MDC is committed to improving human health through transformative biomedical research. Our goal is to pioneer discoveries for preventing, treating, and ultimately curing disease.

The Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells at the Max Delbrück Center (MDC), in collaboration with the Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), is offering a postdoctoral research position in stem cell biology, bioengineering, germ cell differentiation, and species conservation.

This position is part of an exciting initiative applying cutting-edge reproductive and stem cell technologies to species conservation. It focuses on two endangered mammals:

1. The Northern White Rhinoceros (NWR), a species on the brink of extinction, as part of the BioRescue project.
2. The Bavarian Pine Vole (Microtus bavaricus), an endemic and critically endangered rodent, offering a unique model system for developing and refining conservation techniques, including tetraploid complementation assays.

Job Description

Project overview:
The successful candidate (m/f/d) will develop advanced reproductive technologies to generate gametes and embryos from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and explore novel approaches for conservation. The two key focus areas are:

1. Northern White Rhinoceros (NWR) – BioRescue Project
The BioRescue project is an international collaboration aimed at rescuing the functionally extinct NWR through assisted reproductive technologies. The goal is to generate embryos from natural and iPSC-derived gametes and transfer them into surrogate Southern White Rhinos. The postdoctoral researcher (m/f/d) will derive and optimize differentiation protocols for germ cells and embryos and apply CRISPR-based genome editing strategies to enhance functionality.

2. Bavarian Pine Vole – A Model for Species Conservation
The Bavarian Pine Vole is one of the rarest mammals in Europe, with only a few remaining populations.
This project aims to leverage iPSC technology for conservation, creating a reproducible model system for endangered small mammals. In addition to in vitro gamete and embryo generation, the study will explore tetraploid complementation assays—a powerful method to test stem cell pluripotency and generate viable offspring from stem cell-derived embryos.
By refining these methods in a small, fast-breeding species, we aim to establish a scalable approach to species conservation.

Key responsibilities:

develop and optimize differentiation protocols for iPSC-derived germ cells and embryos in both large (NWR) and small (Bavarian Pine Vole) mammals.
perform CRISPR-based genome editing to enhance functionality of stem cell-derived gametes.
derive and characterize new iPSC lines from NWR and Bavarian Pine Vole specimens and functionally compare them with embryonic stem cells if possible.
explore tetraploid complementation assays as a potential method for producing viable offspring from iPSC-derived embryos.
supervise technicians performing gene editing and cell differentiation experiments.
troubleshoot and refine methodologies to increase efficiency and robustness.
summarize research findings, prepare manuscripts, and present data in group meetings.

Requirements

Who we are looking for:
The ideal candidate (/m/f/d) is an independent, highly motivated researcher with a strong background in stem cell biology or developmental biology. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in cell culture techniques, molecular biology, gene editing (CRISPR), and in vitro differentiation methodologies.

Essential qualifications:

Ph.D. in stem cell biology, bioengineering, developmental biology, or a related field (or near completion)
minimum of 5 years of experience in stem cell research or a related discipline
strong experience with pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation protocols
hands-on expertise in CRISPR genome editing and vector cloning procedures
solid understanding of germ cell differentiation and/or in vitro fertilization techniques
familiarity with tetraploid complementation assays and/or embryonic development methods
ability to troubleshoot experiments and develop scientific workflows independently
strong organizational and team collaboration skills
willingness to work under biosafety level 2 conditions
weekend work around once a month necessary

**Preferred qualifications: **

experience in iPSC-derived gamete differentiation and functional assays
background in functional analysis of embryonic development
experience mentoring junior scientists and technicians

We offer

international working environment with communication in English and German
interesting career opportunities and a range of opportunities for further qualification and training
Compatibility of family and career certified by the workandfamily audit (“berufundfamilie audit”)
Support for "New Berliners" through the MDC Welcome & Family Office

You also benefit from:

a dynamic, interdisciplinary team at the intersection of stem cell biology and conservation science
access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies
the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking conservation projects with real-world impact
a remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the federal public service (TVöD-Bund), including additional company pension schemes
flexible working hours and a collaborative research environment
the possibility of mobile working
an idyllic green campus, which is easily accessible by bicycle, public transport or car
free use of Nextbike from the Buch S-Bahn station to the campus
Subsidy for the job ticket as well as discounts in the campus canteen
On-campus health and fitness center
additional health benefits such as flu vaccination, eye test, ergonomics advice at the workplace

Further Information:

Job Type: postdoc / scientific staff

Team: Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells

Application Period: April 01, 2025

Workplace: MDC Berlin-Buch

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Salary: Remuneration will be according to the TVöD Bund, depending on the personal requirements, up to the fee group EG 13.

Employment volume: Full Time

Desired starting date: June 01, 2025

Limitation: Fixed Term
The position is limited for three years.

Contact: Dr. Sebastian Diecke
Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells
Office _Diecke@mdc-berlin.de

Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion:

MDC values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive, fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equitable consideration for employment based on their experience and qualifications, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, or other personal characteristics. We recognize that creating diverse teams that represent a broad range of experiences, perspectives and backgrounds strengthen our work and research. We welcome applications from open-minded people who embrace working together in a diverse environment. Applications from severely disabled people will be given particular consideration.

Application:

Please use our online portal and submit your application including a cover letter, CV (without photo, age and information about your family status) and other relevant attachments.

If you have a foreign degree, please submit proof of the recognition of your Master's/doctoral degree in Germany with your application. The proof can be determined via the anabin database and can be submitted as a PDF attachment to the application. Further information can be found at Recognition of Degrees and Achievements.
For information on fair mobility, click here: https://www.fair-labour-mobility.eu/.

Apply now