Head of Department (m/f/d) Insect Biotechnology

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is one of the world's leading organizations for application-oriented research. 75 institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society – more precisely: 32 000 people from technology, science, administration and IT. They know: Anyone who comes to Fraunhofer wants to and can make a difference. For themselves, for us and for the markets of today and tomorrow.

Fraunhofer IME conducts applied life sciences research ranging from molecules to ecosystems. At our Giessen site, we consolidate our expertise in the field of bioresources. As part of a strategic realignment, we are seeking an entrepreneurial leader to shape the scientific profile and drive the commercial success of our newly established Department of Insect Biotechnology (formerly Pest and Vector Control).

Your Mission: Transformation and Growth

The field of insect biotechnology is undergoing an exciting transformation. Driven by the EU Green Deal, demand for sustainable pest management solutions is rapidly increasing. You will take over a department with an excellent technological foundation (including RNAi expertise, S3 laboratory infrastructure, and µ-imaging capabilities) and elevate it to the next level.

Your objective is to further professionalize the department in line with the Fraunhofer model and establish it as a leading partner for industry.

Be part of change

Strategic Leadership: You will be responsible for the scientific and organizational realignment of the department, with a focus on biological and biotechnological pest control as well as innovative methods (e.g., RNAi, sterile insect technique).
Business Development: You will expand industrial business through proactive acquisition and leverage your network to open up new markets (e.g., climate adaptation research, pathogen diagnostics).
Management & Administration: You will professionalize internal processes and ensure efficient project controlling.
Research & Networking: You will oversee the acquisition of public funding (EU, BMFTR, DFG) and strengthen the strategic partnership with the Justus Liebig University Giessen, as well as the use of the Fraunhofer strain collection.

What you contribute

Scientific Background: Completed university degree and PhD in biology, biotechnology, entomology, or a related discipline.
Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of entomology and modern insect control methods (particularly RNAi technologies or genetic approaches).
Industry Experience & Network: Several years of experience in industry or industry-related research, with established contacts among relevant stakeholders (agrochemicals, biotech).
Management Skills: Proven experience in administrative leadership, budget responsibility, and personnel management. You are familiar with KPIs and process optimization.
Personal Qualities: A proactive, entrepreneurial mindset with strong communication skills and the ability to inspire teams toward new approaches. Fluency in German and English is required.

What we offer

Creative Freedom: A rare opportunity to reshape and strategically develop a department with excellent infrastructure (including a high-security laboratory).
Technological Excellence: Access to leading expertise in RNAi development and state-of-the-art breeding and imaging facilities.
Network: Integration into the renowned Fraunhofer network and close collaboration with top-level academic research in Giessen.
Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and support for balancing family and career.

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

City:Gießen Date:Jun 3, 2026