Junior researchers can conduct independent research work at a Max Planck Institute by establishing their own Max Planck Research Group. Candidates receive their own fixed budget to run their research group, in which PhD students and one postdoc work together on a specific research topic.
Highly qualified postdocs who
Funding and work contract. The level of funding depends on the respective research area and research focus. It covers funding for staff, materials and operating costs, including the researcher’s own salary (W2 position).
5 years with two possible extensions of up to 2 years each.
Application on advertisement only. Positions at specific institutes are advertised throughout the year. Central advertisements are normally published once a year in autumn. All positions are advertised in scientific journals and on their websites as well as on the websites of the respective institutes.
The Max Planck Society focuses on basic research in the natural sciences, life sciences, humanities and social sciences. Details of research grants and job vacancies can be found in the central Max Planck Society database or on the websites of the 86 Max Planck Institutes and research facilities.