Group Leader (f/m/d)

Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg

Group Leader Position

Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging (RVZ) University of Würzburg, Germany

The Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging (RVZ) is a leading interdisciplinary research institute at the University of Würzburg. Home to 14 cutting-edge research groups, the RVZ is at the forefront of developing and applying advanced imaging and analytical methodologies to investigate disease-relevant structures and mechanisms across all biological scales - from single molecules to entire organisms. Our vision is to translate fundamental discoveries into tangible biomedical innovations.

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: katrin.heinze@uni-wuerzburg.de

Application

Please submit your application as a single pdf file via email to personal@virchow.uni-wuerzburg.de including, in this order:

1. Cover letter (1 page) - outlining your motivation and fit for the position
2. Curriculum Vitae - highlighting research achievements, leadership, and collaborations
3. List of publications highlighting five key papers with brief statements on their significance and your contributions
4. Research plan (max. 3 pages)
5. 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 D15
97080 Würzburg, Germany
Email: personal@virchow.uni-wuerzburg.de
Phone +49-931-31-88128
https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/rvz/