The German Rheumatology Research Center Berlin (DRFZ), an institute of the Leibniz Association, was founded in 1988 and is unique in Germany for its focus on rheumatic diseases. Today, the DRFZ ranks among the world’s leading institutes in the fields of immunology, experimental rheumatology, and rheumatic disease epidemiology. This is due in no small part to the unique interdisciplinary collaboration among the experts conducting research at the DRFZ in the fields of biology, biotechnology, bioinformatics, chemistry, physics, medicine, sociology, and statistics. They investigate the causes, progression, and treatment of rheumatic diseases.
To support a research group, we are seeking a:
Technical Assistant for Chemical and Biological Laboratories (m/f/div)
(Full-time, 39 hours/week)
Start date: As soon as possible
Responsibilities:
Responsibilities include:
- Preparation, processing, cryopreservation, and aliquoting of biological samples (human and animal-derived blood, serum, plasma, tissue)
- Assistance with sample collection for molecular, cellular, and proteomic analyses. This includes the collection of human tissue samples (typically blood) from human donors or from blood collection facilities, as well as from laboratory animals conducted in accordance with established SOPs
- Supporting the Automation Platform in the implementation and further development of automated laboratory processes
- Operation, maintenance, and quality control of laboratory automation systems and liquid-handling platforms
- Assisting with the establishment and optimisation of automated assays and workflows, including the establishment of automated RNA isolation and library preparation for RNA sequencing from human and animal tissue samples
- Collaborating on the organization and documentation of automated laboratory workflows
- Collaboration with academic, clinical, and industrial research partners for the purposes of sample transfer, testing new research equipment, sample processing, and data collection
- Sample management and working with laboratory information and management systems (LIMS)
- Preparation of solutions, buffers, and reagents
- Support with documentation and quality assurance
Job Requirements:
- Completed training as a BTA, MTA, biology lab technician (m/f/other)[DS1] , or comparable qualification
- Practical experience in molecular biology, cell biology, or immunology laboratory procedures, particularly with RNA isolation from cells and tissue samples
- Experience working with automated laboratory equipment or an interest in laboratory automation
- Experience with animal experimentation, particularly mouse dissections and tissue processing is desired, but not essential
- A structured, meticulous, and self-directed work style
- Strong teamwork skills and organizational abilities
- Ability to work proactively and independently to achieve project goals.
- Good written and spoken German and English
- Proficiency in electronic documentation and data management
- Interest in translational research, aging research, and modern high-throughput technologies
We offer:
- a varied and challenging scope of responsibilities
- an interdisciplinary environment encompassing academic, industrial, and clinical research
- a highly motivated team
- an attractive work environment
The employment contract is initially limited to 2 years. Renumeration is based on TVöD-Bund EG 9a.
The DRFZ is an institution that promotes equal opportunity and implements measures to support minorities. Applications from people with an immigrant background, people with severe disabilities, and people from underrepresented groups who meet the recruitment requirements are highly encouraged. The position is located in Berlin-Mitte.
Please submit your application, including a cover letter, resume, and employment references, in electronic form by August 14, 2026, using the reference code “TA,” to: recruitment@drfz.de
German Rheumatism Research Center Berlin
An institute of the Leibniz Association
Charitéplatz 1
10117 Berlin
