Head of the New Approach Methodologies (NAM) Module

The Czech Centre for Phenogenomics (CCP, https://www.phenogenomics.cz/), a large research infrastructure at the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences and an active member of the IMPC and INFRAFRONTIER research infrastructures, invites applications for the position of Head of the New Approach Methodologies (NAM) Module.

The NAM Module is a newly established unit dedicated to developing and providing human cell-based alternatives and complementary models to animal research, including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), organoids, and advanced 2D/3D cell cultures. Building on CCP’s current Advanced In Vitro Models activities, the NAM Module elevates CCP from a purely rodent-centric infrastructure to a next-generation facility that combines in vivo and in vitro approaches, directly supporting the growing regulatory emphasis on human-relevant, non-animal methodologies.

This is an exceptional opportunity to build and lead a new department at CCP, shaping a module that will become central to rare disease research, disease molecular mechanisms, and early-stage drug and gene therapy development.

The role

The Head of the NAM Module will provide scientific and operational leadership for a module that integrates human cell-based technologies, including iPSCs, organoids and advanced in vitro models into CCP’s overall project pipeline. The role combines platform building, research leadership, service development, and cross-modular collaboration. As a Module Head within CCP’s organisation, the successful candidate will operate at the level of an independent Principal Investigator (PI) responsible for services, outputs, regulatory compliance, reporting, and day-to-day module development, while working within CCP’s common strategic, financial, and quality framework.

Key responsibilities

• Develop the long-term scientific vision and strategic roadmap of the NAM Module, ensuring its sustainable growth, scientific excellence, and integration within CCP and international research infrastructures.
• Lead the scientific and technological development of the NAM Module, establishing it as a core CCP capability for human cell-based and non-animal models.
• Oversee the operation and development of iPSC and organoid platforms, including reprogramming, characterization, cryopreservation, and differentiation into relevant 2D and 3D models (e.g. neural, cerebral, skin and other tissue-specific models).
• Design and implement disease modelling and translational workflows for rare genetic disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and additional disease areas, in alignment with RD-Factory and CCP priorities.
• Develop service-oriented pipelines for external academic and industrial users, including disease modelling, drug and gene therapy screening, biomarker studies, and mechanistic analyses.
• Coordinate, lead, mentor and support NAM staff, and ensure effective planning of capacities, priorities, and daily operations within the module.
• Collaborate closely with other CCP modules, to create integrated preclinical workflows that combine human cell-based models with rodent and large-animal models.
• Contribute to CCP’s overall strategy for new approach methodologies, including interaction with regulatory trends, adoption of advanced analytical technologies, and alignment with international standards.
• Engage in grant development, strategic project planning, budgeting, reporting, and KPIs evaluation for the module, in coordination with CCP management and the Research Solutions Strategy Module.
• Represent NAM in interactions with users, partners, regulatory authorities, where appropriate, and international networks focused on advanced in vitro models and NAMs.

Candidate profile

This position is ideally suited to a scientist with a strong background in stem cell biology, advanced in vitro models, and translational research, who is ready to establish and lead a new scientific module integrating human-relevant and animal-based research platforms.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Deep expertise in human iPSC technology, including reprogramming, characterization, and differentiation.
• Experience in developing and using organoid and 3D cell culture models, preferably in areas such as neuroscience, dermatology, ophthalmology, or related fields.
• A demonstrated interest in new approach methodologies (NAMs), and the global shift towards human-relevant models in preclinical research.
• A clear track record in research, preferably including publications in stem cell or organoid biology, disease modelling, or translational in vitro systems.
• The role requires a leader who can combine scientific excellence with platform building, service mindset, team management, and strategic thinking.

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent in stem cell biology, developmental biology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or a closely related discipline.
• Proven experience with human iPSCs and/or organoid technologies, including hands-on experience in establishing and maintaining in vitro models.
• Disease modelling, therapeutic screening, or translational research using cell-based systems will be considered an advantage.
• Ability to lead and coordinate a multidisciplinary team, and to organise complex research and service workflows.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken, and ability to work in an international environment.
• Strong interest in developing new methods, integrating advanced analytics (e.g. single-cell omics, imaging, AI-supported analysis), and contributing to competitive grants and strategic infrastructure projects.
• Awareness of ethical, regulatory, and quality requirements for human cell-based research and data handling.

Experience with collaboration across animal and human model platforms, or with interactions with regulators or patient organisations, will be considered an advantage.

What we offer

• A founding leadership role in a newly established module within a nationally and internationally recognised research infrastructure.
• A highly international, collaborative, and stimulating working environment.
• Access to modern technologies for iPSCs, organoids, rodent models, phenotyping, data science, and preclinical evaluation, enabling integrated projects across in vitro and in vivo platforms.
• Opportunity to shape CCP’s NAM strategy and to build a module that will be central to the next generation of rare disease and complex disorder research.
• Support for professional growth, scientific development, and participation in national and international collaborations and conferences.
• Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, together with an employee benefits package.
• An employee benefits package.

Contract and start date

This is a long-term position. The initial appointment will be for one year and may be extended based on mutual agreement and successful performance, with the possibility of an indefinite appointment after subsequent extensions, in accordance with Czech labour legislation.

The expected start date is autumn 2026 or by agreement.

Application procedure

Applicants are invited to submit:

• A cover letter explaining their interest in leading the NAM - New Approach Methodologies Module and outlining how their experience fits the role.
• A structured curriculum vitae.
• A brief statement of research and development vision for NAM over the next three to five years (scientific focus, platform building, service development, and integration with other CCP modules).
• Contact details for two or three references.