Company Description
At Ovo Labs, our goal is to give everyone a chance to become a parent. We are a venture-backed biotech startup developing a new class of therapeutics that improve human egg quality to radically increase IVF success rates. Our approach is based on breakthrough discoveries from the lab of Professor Melina Schuh at the Max Planck Institute, a pioneer in tracking human meiosis in real-time using fluorescent microscopy techniques. Our therapeutics have already shown promising results in improving the quality of human eggs when applied in vitro and can be seamlessly integrated into existing IVF workflows. Partnering with world-leading IVF clinics and reproductive medicine experts, we are translating pioneering science into life-changing treatments to usher a new era in IVF.
Role Description
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented embryologist or oocyte microinjection specialist experienced in mammalian gamete handling to join our translational research team in Munich. This is a technical position focused on microinjection of oocytes, primarily in human and mouse systems. The candidate will be expected to perform microinjections on a daily basis with high precision and efficiency. Additional responsibilities will include gamete handling, and execution of assays to assess gamete quality and chromosomal content (aneuploidy), oocyte fixation, time-lapse tracking, advanced microscopy, as well as data analysis. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience with ICSI or similar microinjection techniques, and a strong aptitude for high-precision micromanipulation work. Training in advanced microscopy or molecular biology techniques can be provided on the job as needed. The position will also include managerial responsibilities to support our growing R&D operations.
Qualifications
· At least two years of proven hands-on experience with ICSI or similar microinjection techniques (human or animal)
· BSc or MSc in embryology or related field. PhD is a plus but not required
· Excellent hand-eye coordination and precision in micromanipulation work
· Experience in SOP design, lab management and procurement is a plus
· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
· Experience in lab operations or interest in taking on lab management responsibilities
· Genuine interest in cultivating a collaborative and inclusive lab environment
· Fluent in English; German is a plus but not required
Please note: given the nature of our scientific work, our wet lab space requires out-of-hours coverage when patient samples are being processed and analysed. This duty is equitably distributed across the scientific team, with the appointed candidate expected to participate on a pro-rata basis.
What we offer:
· A unique opportunity to be involved in bringing a new class of therapeutics from bench to bedside with potential to be one of the biggest improvements in infertility treatment since the discovery of IVF
· Ability to contribute scientifically to product development, beyond technical role
· Co-authorship on landmark translational publications
· Close collaboration with global scientific and clinical leaders in fertility and embryology
· A dynamic, purpose-driven startup environment
· Opportunity to take ownership and accelerate your professional development in a fast-paced biotech startup
· Development of management skills in lab operations
· Competitive compensation and participation in our employee equity program
