Officer (m/f/d) in the Life Sciences Unit of the Selection Department (part-time)

Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Officer (m/f/d) in the Life Sciences Unit of the Selection Department (part-time)

Working together at the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation – building excellence through connection

On behalf of the Federal Republic of Germany, we support outstanding researchers regardless of discipline or nationality. Our global network forms an essential foundation for international collaboration and, consequently, for excellent research – up to and including Nobel Prize-winning achievements.

The Selection Department advises both international and German researchers prior to submitting their applications and ensures a comprehensive, independent, and strictly science-driven peer-review evaluation of all applications. It also supports 12 independent selection committees in their decision-making processes.

The specialist units within the Selection Department serve as the main scientific point of contact for researchers in Germany, process all funding applications in their respective disciplines, and are responsible for programme management within the Humboldt Foundation’s funding schemes.

We also work together with excellence internally – with a family-like spirit, a diverse team, and a strong dose of pragmatism. Connect with us – professionally and personally. Across cultures and continents. Help us build bridges for a better society and even a better world. This allows others to benefit from our long history and experience – in the spirit of our namesake: “From Humboldt to You”. Apply and become one of us!

Your role – from diligence to teamwork

Within the framework of the Global Minds Initiative Germany of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, your responsibilities include:

• Preparing assessments for the office (“voting” / expert evaluation)
• Leading a subject group in the life sciences
• Programme coordination within the Feodor Lynen selection programme

What we are looking for

• Above-average university degree (minimum Master’s degree)
• PhD in the life sciences with a focus on molecular biology and/or cell biology
• Relevant research experience or proven professional experience (e.g. in foundations or international science management)
• Study or research experience abroad
• Experience in coordination and decision-making processes is desirable
• Strong presentation skills and confident professional demeanor
• Business-fluent German and English, spoken and written
• Very good computer skills

More information can be found on our careers page.

At a glance

• Work location:Bonn
• Employment type:Part-time 50.9% (19.85 hours/week) until 31 July 2026; from 1 August 2026 – 31 December 2027: 57.815% (22.54 hours/week)
• Pay grade:TVöD E13
• Expected start date:1 July 2026
• Contract duration:Until 31 December 2027
• Interview date:17 June 2026

As part of the selection process, candidates will complete a practical case study with a presentation, a role-play exercise, and a personal interview. Please note that part of the interview will be conducted in English.

What you can expect

• International and open-minded working environment
• Fair and secure pay according to collective agreements
• Annual bonus payment
• 30 days of vacation per year (based on a 5-day week)
• Occupational pension scheme
• Extensive training and development opportunities
• Friendly, appreciative work culture and strong team spirit
• Flexible working hours
• Mobile working options
• Work-life balance certified by the “audit berufundfamilie” quality seal
• Subsidy for Germany-wide or Deutsche Bahn tickets
• Bicycle and car parking spaces
• Good transport connections
• Health management and corporate sports programme

Diversity is a matter of course for us. We are as open to the world as our namesake. The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation promotes equality and therefore welcomes all applications regardless of ethnic, cultural or social background, age, gender, religion, worldview, disability, or sexual identity.

We look forward to receiving your application – and to getting to know you.

Please submit your application documents (maximum one-page cover letter, CV, and relevant certificates of education and employment) by 1 June 2026 via the online application form. If you obtained a foreign university degree, please include proof of recognition by the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs.

For questions, please contact:
Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Human Resources Department, Ms. Claudia Büsgen, Phone +49 228 833-522

“If you want to do something great, you must start right away.” – Alexander von Humboldt

Apply here: https://cockpit.as-mediendesign.de/job/122988