Head of Operations in Biotechnologies (f/m/x)
Full time39 hrs./week
Neuherberg near Munich
At Helmholtz Munich, we develop groundbreaking solutions for a healthier society in a rapidly changing world. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. Through strong partnerships, we accelerate the transfer of new ideas from the lab to real-life applications, improving lives.
The Institute for Intelligent Biotechnologies (iBIO) develops and implements tools to analyze biological samples' 3D structure and molecular identity. At iBIO, we bring together cutting-edge science from biology, chemistry, engineering, and computer applications. Our overarching aim is to obtain a holistic view of interconnected biological systems in health and disease. We develop clearing technologies for cellular-level imaging and deep learning algorithms (AI) to analyze large imaging and molecular data in a robust and unbiased way. Worldwide media, including New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Süddeutsche Zeitung, have highlighted our research. You can find out more about us here.
We are offering an exciting opportunity as Head of Operations (f/m/x).
Your tasks
- Operational Excellence: Shape and optimize workflows across imaging, AI analysis, data, and reporting. Define performance indicators and oversee infrastructure, ensuring efficiency through the smart integration of AI.
- Team & Culture Development: Build and lead diverse, high-performing teams by overseeing recruitment, onboarding, and continuous learning. Foster a culture that values innovation, inclusion, and agile thinking, with AI literacy at its core.
- Customer Success & Engagement: Drive customer relationships from scoping to long-term support. Use AI to gain insights and ensure a seamless customer experience – tailored to the needs of researchers, clinicians, or partners.
- Governance & Compliance: Lead the implementation of quality and compliance systems (e.g. SOPs, regulatory frameworks) supported by digital and AI-driven tools. Collaborate with Finance to ensure data-based budget planning and forecasting.
- External Representation: Represent operations in front of investors, strategic partners, and regulatory bodies.
Your profile
- Degree: Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in physics, engineering, life sciences, or a related field
- Proven operational leadership experience: in biotech or health tech operations — ideally with exposure to imaging, AI, or therapeutic development
- Scaling Expertise: Proven success in scaling lab or service operations involving complex biological processes and data workflows
- Exceptional People Leadership: Excellent leadership skills (e.g. developing high-performing teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning) & communications skills (fluent in English, German is a plus)
- Project Management Mastery: Strategic thinker with strong project management skills (from KPI design to budget ownership), an agile mindset, and the drive to push innovations forward
- Hands-on mindset: you enjoy building, solving, and improving in high-ambiguity, high-impact settings
If you fulfill all the requirements, you may be eligible for a salary grade of up to E 14. Social benefits are based on the Collective Wage Agreement for Public-Sector Employees (TVöD). The position has a fixed term of 1 year.
„We believe that diversity is the key to groundbreaking research and innovative solutions. Our flexible working models and remote options create a supportive environment for balancing work and family life. For us, contributing to a healthier society in such an inspiring workplace is truly meaningful.“
Benefits
- Work-Life-Balance: Flexible working hours and flexi-time models
- Personal Development: Continuous education and training
- Recreation: 30 days annual leave, flexi days, plus public holidays
- Family Support: child care, holiday care, care for the elderly
- Health Promotion: Sports, company doctor, mental health initiatives
- Retirement Provision: Company pension plan
Interested in applying?
- CV
- Cover letter
- Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates
- Contact details for at least two referees
If you have obtained a university degree abroad, we will require further documents from you regarding the comparability of your degree. Please request the Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications as early as possible.
We are committed to promoting a culture of diversity and welcome applications from talented people regardless of gender, cultural background, nationality, ethnicity, sexual identity, physical abilities, religion or age. Qualified applicants with physical disabilities will be given preference.
Our commitment
Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH)
Institute for Intelligent Biotechnologies
Ingolstädter Landstraße 1
85764 Neuherberg
