Network Manager (m/f/div)

Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology

The Leibniz-HKI invites applications for a Network Manager to support the successful implementation and long-term impact of Fellows4Fungi, an ambitious EU-funded MSCA COFUND postdoctoral program dedicated to tackling the global health crisis of fungal infections. Fellows4Fungi will recruit 12 international postdoctoral fellows across two calls and train them at the forefront of antifungal research, fungal biology, microbiome science, AI-driven drug discovery, and translational innovation. The program brings together cutting-edge infrastructure, a strong European partner network, and a commitment to open science, equality, and societal responsibility. We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Network Manager who is excited to operate at the interface of science, communication, administration, and strategic program management. As Network Manager, you will be the central hub ensuring smooth operation of the Fellows4Fungi program. Your responsibilities will include: Program Management & Coordination

• Oversee day-to-day management of the COFUND program and serve as primary contact for fellows, supervisors, and international partners.
• Coordinate recruitment campaigns, application handling, evaluation processes, and onboarding for two fellowship calls.
• Organize training activities, secondments, workshops, and annual meetings.
• Ensure compliance with EU COFUND guidelines, reporting requirements and timelines.

Communication, Dissemination & Outreach

• Develop communication materials that translate complex scientific topics into clear messages for multiple audiences.
• Maintain the program website and support visual communication, newsletters, impact stories, and public engagement activities.
• Prepare presentations, reports, and promotional content in collaboration with the Leibniz-HKI communications team.

Administrative & Strategic Support

• Support financial monitoring, deliverables, and interactions with EU project officers.
• Track fellows’ progress and support their career development activities.
• Contribute to internal evaluations, quality assurance measures, and continuous program improvement.

As a long-term perspective, we also expect interaction and active involvement in the network of early career support programs and other collaborative projects at Leibniz-HKI.

Your profile

We are looking for a candidate with a unique blend of scientific training, communication skills, and project management experience. You bring:

• A completed PhD in the life sciences or a related field
• Experience working in international and interdisciplinary research environments
• Proven ability to manage projects, coordinate stakeholders, and independently solve problems
• Strong skills in scientific writing, conceptual thinking, and synthesizing complex information
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; experience in grant writing is an asset
• Skills in science illustration, visual communication, or design are highly advantageous
• Familiarity with EU-funded programs is a strong plus
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of German is an asset
• A proactive, structured, and service-oriented mindset with enthusiasm for supporting researchers and shaping a major international program

We offer

Within the MSCA COFUND Program “Fellows4Fungi” you can find:

• A highly stimulating academic environment in one of Europe’s leading centers for fungal research.
• The opportunity to contribute creatively to a high-profile EU program with global relevance.
• Close interaction with cutting-edge research teams and a broad international partner network.
• A dynamic and supportive work culture at the Leibniz-HKI.
• Flexible working conditions, professional development opportunities, and the chance to shape innovative training structures for early-career scientists.
• Salary is paid according to German TV-L (salary agreement for public service employees), depending on qualifications and experience.

Contact details

Christine Vogler | +49 3641 532-1447

Application

Leibniz-HKI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It aims to increase the proportion of underrepresented groups in case of equal suitability. All qualified persons, regardless of color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law will receive consideration for employment. Complete applications in English should include a cover letter, a CV containing a complete list of publications, a certificate of study / transcript of records, and the addresses of two possible referees and should be submitted via the Leibniz-HKI online application system. The deadline for the advertisement is March 29, 2026, but applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.