Executive Manager for the Joint Lab 'first in Translation' (d/f/m)

The DWI – Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials is a research institute of the Leibniz Association, funded by the German federal and state governments and located on the Melaten campus of RWTH Aachen University. Inspired by the properties of natural materials, scientists from various disciplines at the DWI develop interactive materials for future applications in biomedicine as well as in the fields of sustainability and information.

In close cooperation with the University Hospital RWTH Aachen (UKA) and the Medical Faculty of RWTH Aachen University, the DWI is currently building the Leibniz Joint Lab 'first in Translation' (fiT). Construction will be completed in 2022. The aim of the fiT is to close the gap between biomedical research and the clinical application of new materials. It provides physicians with the unique opportunity to initiate (pre-)clinical studies, presenting evidence of medical benefit.

One of the key positions for the realization of these ambitious plans is a proactive, enthusiastic and highly motivated executive manager eager to bring the Joint Lab to life in order to realize the enormous potential of this facility at the interface of materials research and clinical development.

We are looking for an

Executive Manager for the Joint Lab 'first in Translation' (d/f/m)

at the earliest possible date.

Your tasks:

• You identify suitable staff for the Joint Lab, you guide the staff and coordinate the Joint Lab's workflows.
• You have a central function by establishing the structures of the Joint Lab and setting up the translation processes – in close cooperation with representatives from DWI and UKA, the staff of the fiT and the project managers.
• You will report to the representatives from DWI and UKA and you will prepare an annual work and cost plan.
• Together with the Facility Management and Quality Management staff, you will be responsible for the smooth operation, occupational safety and quality management of the fiT.
• You will work with the project officers of the DWI and UKA, identify research projects that are suitable for a translation process at the fiT, and prepare each of these for submission to the project committee together with the project officers. In doing so, you will support the project officers in the preparation of a detailed work and research plan, especially with regard to the fulfillment of the legal requirements for the execution of the feasibility study.
• You will also support the project officers in the preparation of cost plans for the translation projects and accompany the development of the translation projects selected by the project commission.
• You will acquire public funding in collaboration with scientists for the implementation of translational projects.

Your profile:

• You have a successfully completed Master's degree or a comparable degree in the fields of natural sciences, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy or a comparable field, preferably in combination with a successfully completed PhD.
• You have several years of professional experience in the translational field for medical devices, ATMPs, cell-based in vitro diagnostics and/or drug delivery systems.
• You know the basics, laws and regulations in a GMP environment.
• You have in-depth knowledge of relevant quality systems and regulatory guidelines, ISO, MDR/IVDR and GMP regulations, in the biomedical/regenerative medicine field. You have experience in risk management and coordination of internal audits.
• Experience in training and supervision of employees is an advantage.
• You enjoy working in a highly motivated, dynamic team at the interface of science and medicine as well as jointly building a new facility.
• You are characterized by a high degree of motivation and resilience.
• Analytical thinking, organizational skills and the ability to act independently and on your own responsibility are as natural to you as social skills.
• You have a very good command of written and spoken German and English.

The DWI offers:

• A high degree of freedom of action in an exciting, innovative environment.
• Challenging tasks and development opportunities in a modern scientific organization.
• An open and team-oriented working atmosphere in an international environment.
• The support of a very dedicated team.
• A company pension scheme within the framework of the VBL.
• Flexible and family-friendly working conditions.

The DWI is seeking a long-term, stable appointment to this key position in the Joint Lab. The position is initially limited to two years. However, a permanent position is sought in the long term. Flexible work models may be considered. The salary is based on the collective agreement for the public service of the federal states (TV-L).

The DWI supports you in gaining further qualifications. We offer our employees a wide range of career opportunities in an appealing working environment and have established various measures to ensure equal opportunities and to improve the compatibility of work and family.

The DWI – Leibniz Institute values diversity and therefore welcomes all applications - regardless of gender, disability, nationality or ethnic and social origin.