Enlightening Science

European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany. It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide range of experimental techniques.

For our Communications group, we are looking for a

Tutor (f/m/d) for the Xcool Lab in Molecular Biology

The Position

The Lighthouse Visitor Centre at European XFEL informs visitors about the facility and its research. Within the Lighthouse, the Xcool Lab is a place for extracurricular education and consists of two school labs, one for physics and one for molecular biology. School classes can come for one day and attend one of our courses, usually from 9 am to around 3/4:30 pm. They will perform different experiments, present their results and discuss the science behind them. As a student assistant, you will work one full day per week. The successful candidate will:

• Work as a tutor in the Xcool Lab, working closely with the teaching and outreach staff
• Prepare experiments before the start of an Xcool Lab day
• Teach, supervise and support school students in doing experiments in molecular biology and biochemistry
• Help with summary and discussions of experimental results
• Ensure safe working environments for students under supervision of responsible Xcool Lab staff
• Possibly contribute to new and further development of materials and experiments
• Possibly contribute to outreach programmes and events and help out at the information desk in the Lighthouse

Requirements

• Currently studying towards a bachelor's or master's in the subjects of biology, molecular biosciences, biochemistry, microbiology, chemistry or a related field. Studying in a course targeted at future teachers (Lehramt) is an advantage, but not mandatory.
• Practical laboratory experience with the following experimental techniques: PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, restriction enzyme digests
• Experience with some of the following would be an asset: UV-visible spectrophotometry, bacterial transformations, bacteria culture, DNA extraction, practical experience with bioinformatics tools, particularly sequence analysis, primer design or structural biology models
• Ability to communicate concepts in molecular biology and biochemistry in an easy-to-understand way
• Organisational and communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a team, independence, sense of responsibility
• Fluency in German and a working knowledge of English

Our offer

Become part of a vibrant international and multicultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.

Salary and benefits are similar to those of public service organizations in Germany, this includes for example:

• family-friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
• flexible working times and option for work from home depending on tasks
• 30 days of vacation, 24th and 31st of December are free as a courtesy of the employer
• extensive relocation benefits
• generous company pension scheme (6,45% of monthly salary)
• monthly social events and subsidized company restaurant
• partially financed job-tickets for public transportation
• extensive training opportunities incl. subsidized English and German language classes
• Easy and free access to a mental health platform to support your well-being

Our company language is English.

Reference number: X-401

Duration: This position is initially limited to 2 years and might be extended subject to later decision.

Application

Please apply online and provide your CV and a motivation letter in English as well as any reference letters.

The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.

For additional information, please contact Sarah Aretz ( [email protected]).

Working place will be Schenefeld, in the Hamburg metropolitan area. General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found here.