Job advertisement
Job-ID 05/2026





At the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Leibniz-HKI), we investigate the pathobiology of microorganisms and develop new natural product-based active compounds for the treatment of infectious diseases.


Network Manager (m/f/div)

The position is initially limited to four years.


The Leibniz-HKI invites applications for a Network Manager to support the successful implementation and long-term impact of Fellows4Fungi, an ambitious EU-funded MSCA COFUND postdoctoral program dedicated to tackling the global health crisis of fungal infections.
Fellows4Fungi will recruit 12 international postdoctoral fellows across two calls and train them at the forefront of antifungal research, fungal biology, microbiome science, AI-driven drug discovery, and translational innovation. The program brings together cutting-edge infrastructure, a strong European partner network, and a commitment to open science, equality, and societal responsibility.


We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Network Manager who is excited to operate at the interface of science, communication, administration, and strategic program management.


As Network Manager, you will be the central hub ensuring smooth operation of the Fellows4Fungi program. Your responsibilities will include:


Program Management & Coordination


Oversee day-to-day management of the COFUND program and serve as primary contact for fellows, supervisors, and international partners.
Coordinate recruitment campaigns, application handling, evaluation processes, and onboarding for two fellowship calls.
Organize training activities, secondments, workshops, and annual meetings.
Ensure compliance with EU COFUND guidelines, reporting requirements and timelines.


Communication, Dissemination & Outreach



Develop communication materials that translate complex scientific topics into clear messages for multiple audiences.
Maintain the program website and support visual communication, newsletters, impact stories, and public engagement activities.
Prepare presentations, reports, and promotional content in collaboration with the Leibniz-HKI communications team.


Administrative & Strategic Support



Support financial monitoring, deliverables, and interactions with EU project officers.
Track fellows’ progress and support their career development activities.
Contribute to internal evaluations, quality assurance measures, and continuous program improvement.


As a long-term perspective, we also expect interaction and active involvement in the network of early career support programs and other collaborative projects at Leibniz-HKI.
We are looking for a candidate with a unique blend of scientific training, communication skills, and project management experience. You bring:



A completed PhD in the life sciences or a related field
Experience working in international and interdisciplinary research environments
Proven ability to manage projects, coordinate stakeholders, and independently solve problems
Strong skills in scientific writing, conceptual thinking, and synthesizing complex information
Excellent communication and presentation skills; experience in grant writing is an asset
Skills in science illustration, visual communication, or design are highly advantageous
Familiarity with EU-funded programs is a strong plus
Proficiency in English; knowledge of German is an asset
A proactive, structured, and service-oriented mindset with enthusiasm for supporting researchers and shaping a major international program
Within the MSCA COFUND Program “Fellows4Fungi” you can find:



A highly stimulating academic environment in one of Europe’s leading centers for fungal research.
The opportunity to contribute creatively to a high-profile EU program with global relevance.
Close interaction with cutting-edge research teams and a broad international partner network.
A dynamic and supportive work culture at the Leibniz-H...