The Biomedical Microfluidics group at the Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM), Heidelberg University, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Position in Acoustofluidics and Biomedical Device Engineering (f/m/d). The project focuses on developing innovative ultrasound-driven microfluidic technologies to isolate and analyse extracellular vesicles from microlitre samples for disease diagnostics and biomedical research.
Overview of the Position
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) |
| Research Area | Acoustofluidics, Biomedical Device Engineering, Microfluidics, Ultrasound Instrumentation |
| Location | Heidelberg University, IMSEAM, Im Neuenheimer Feld 225, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany |
| Remuneration / Pay Scale | TV-L E13 (100%), German public sector pay scale |
| Duration | Up to 2 years (Earliest start: 1 February 2027) |
| Application Deadline | 30 November 2026 |
Job Description
The successful candidate will combine acoustic actuation, experimental instrumentation, and microfluidic device development to explore the physical mechanisms of acoustic particle manipulation. Key tasks and responsibilities include:
- Independently designing, developing, and experimentally characterising acoustofluidic devices for extracellular vesicle enrichment and separation.
- Investigating how acoustic actuation, device geometry, and material properties impact particle manipulation and overall device performance.
- Integrating ultrasound transducers, electronic instrumentation, and microfluidic components into functional, robust experimental systems.
- Developing measurement, control, and automation routines (e.g., using Python or MATLAB) to enhance experimental reproducibility.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary researchers in chemistry, biology, and clinical medicine to validate biological downstream analysis.
- Leading scientific publications, presenting research at international conferences, and co-supervising master’s and doctoral candidates.
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Education: A PhD in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. Candidates with an electrical engineering background are particularly encouraged to apply.
- Technical Expertise: Strong background in developing and characterising experimental systems, with expertise in ultrasound/acoustics, transducers, electronic instrumentation, microfluidics, microsystems, or device fabrication.
- Analytical Skills: Strong quantitative and analytical problem-solving abilities, capable of independent experimental design and critical interpretation.
- Desirable Skills: Experience with programming and data analysis (Python or MATLAB), experimental automation, finite-element modelling (FEM), or cleanroom microfabrication.
- Language: Excellent professional communication skills in English.
- Note: Previous experience with extracellular vesicles or biological assays is not required.
What We Offer
- An interdisciplinary research project linking fundamental physical acoustics with translational biomedical applications.
- Scientific independence to formulate and pursue novel research directions.
- State-of-the-art access to microfabrication, acoustofluidic, and bioanalytical core facilities.
- Broad opportunities for supervision experience, conference travel, career mentorship, and international networking.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare their application materials merged into a single PDF file containing:
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV), including a complete list of publications.
- A concise motivation letter outlining research interests and relevant technical experience.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Contact information for two academic referees.
- Optional: A brief example of a relevant technical or research project.
Please submit your application via email directly to Dr. Michael Gerlt at michael.gerlt@imseam.uni-heidelberg.de.
Important: You must use the exact email subject line: Postdoc Application – [Last Name] (replace [Last Name] with your actual surname). Incomplete applications or those not submitted as a single PDF will not be reviewed.
Application Deadline and Links
Last Date for Apply: 30 November 2026
Official Job Announcement: Heidelberg University IMSEAM Vacancy Notice
Apply Link: Send Application Email
