Max Planck Research Groups

The Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Wissenschaften e.V. (MPG) is an independent, non-profit research organization, whose goal is to promote top quality research at its institutes. The 84 research institutes of the Max-Planck-Gesellschaft conduct basic research in Biology and Medicine; Chemistry, Physics and Technology; and the Humanities, Social Sciences, Cognitive (Neuro)Sciences, and Law. The Max-Planck-Gesellschaft is particularly interested in addressing innovative and interdisciplinary research areas.

The MPG seeks to increase the number of women in those fields in which they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly welcomes applications from women in all disciplines. We are also committed to employing individuals with disabilities and expressly encourage them to apply.

The successful candidates will be offered a Max Planck Research Group for a period of five years at a Max Planck Institute of their own choice. This includes a W2 position (equivalent to an assistant or untenured associate professor level) and additional resources for research positions, as well as a budget to realize the project. The total funding for a Max Planck Research Group is competitive with top start-up packages in international career development programs. The MPG aims to support emerging scholars early in their career path.

The MPG and the Technische Universität München (TUM) continue their joint MPG/TUM career program. It provides an add-on opportunity for newly hired Max Planck Research Group Leaders: Once accepted for a Max Planck Research Group Leader position, they can also apply for a position as a Tenure Track Assistant Professor at the TUM. Acceptance into this joint program includes the right to award doctoral degrees, and further provides career options to Associate and Full Professor status according to the TUM Faculty Tenure Track system (see www.tum.de/tenure-track and www.tum.de/tenure-track-mpg). This offer is independent of the chosen Max Planck Institute.

Tenure track options may also be possible with other universities on an individual basis. In addition, the MPG also considers outstanding Max Planck Research Group Leaders when hiring new directors.

Your application should include a CV, a list of publications, copies of three publications, a one-page summary of scientific achievements, two letters of recommendation, and a research plan. For detailed information about the advertised positions and the application please see