About us:

At Differential Bio, we are pioneering the future of biotechnology through the power of lab automation and digital modeling. As a digital biology challenger, we focus on optimizing the end-to-end fermentation performance through media and bioprocess improvements, particularly in the realm of probiotics. Our cutting-edge Virtual Scale-up Platform empowers us to revolutionize traditional lab work, enabling more sustainable and economically viable bio-based production in the long run.

Role summary:

We are looking for a curious and hands-on Working Student in Robotics & Lab Automation to join our interdisciplinary team in Munich, Germany (on-site). This role is perfect for a tinkerer who loves to experiment, build, and automate—whether in the lab, at home, or on a 3D printer. You will work directly with our CTO (Martin) and get the chance to learn from a highly interdisciplinary team while contributing to real-world automation challenges.

Key responsibilities:

• Explore and evaluate automation frameworks:
  • Search GitHub and other sources for existing integrations of lab devices.
  • Assess, test, and adapt frameworks for our environment.
• Design lab automation setups:
  • Plan devices, protocols, and integration strategies. Closely collaborate with the scientists in the lab that typically do process x already in a manual fashion.
  • Create custom CAD designs and 3D prints when needed.
  • Anticipate failure modes, design recovery strategies, and ensure proper documentation (logs, video, etc.).
• Implement custom integrations:
  • Build new Python/Bash/COM-based workflows when no ready-made solutions exist.
  • Share your code openly when possible—great opportunity to build a public track record under your own name.

Qualifications:

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Show us that you are a true builder 🛠️.

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• Enrolled student in Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Robotics, or related field.
• Comfortable coding in Python and Bash, familiarity with Component Object Model (COM) is a plus.
• Demonstrated experience automating workflows (this can be as simple as a home project, smart home, or a DIY robot).
• Tinkerer mindset: curious, resourceful, not afraid to break things and fix them quickly.
• Self-driven and eager to learn, with a bias towards action.

Nice to have:

• Experience with 3D printing and CAD design.