The Department of Comparative Development and Genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research (MPIPZ) in Cologne is seeking to fill
2 x Research Support positions (m/f/d) to contribute to our daily laboratory work on mechanisms underlying plant development and diversity. The successful applicants will work in close collaboration with experienced research technicians and scientists at different levels and they will cultivate and characterize developmental traits in plant strains derived from mutagenesis and wild collections as well as transgenic plants. They will also be involved in generation of new transgenic plants. Experience in molecular biology (genomic DNA extraction, PCR, cloning), and in handling and cultivating plants, as well as experience with plant genetics is essential (further information on our research: https://www.mpipz.mpg.de/tsiantis). Experience working with Arabidopsis, including the generation of transgenic plants and CRISPR/Cas mutants, is a strong asset. Experience with single cell approaches is also of interest. Additional tasks will involve maintaining lab genetic collections, preparing culture media and assisting in organizing and daily running of an S1 lab. The level of independent work and responsibility will depend on qualifications.
Your profile:
Successful candidates will have completed professional training as either a research technician with first professional experience, or as a biology graduate (B.Sc. in plant genetics or an equivalent discipline) with work experience or an additional educational qualification. We are searching for highly motivated candidates with an organized working style and highly developed teamwork skills. Applicants should be enthusiastic about scientific research in an international environment. Excellent documentation skills, computer literacy (Microsoft Office, Electronic lab book applications) as well as fluent English are required.
We offer stimulating and multi-faceted positions (full-time employment) in a friendly and international environment. Payment and benefits are according to the German TVöD and will depend on experience, knowledge and qualifications. The positions are for one year, starting as early as possible and no later than February 2027, with the possibility of renewal.
Applications in English can be sent through the online system, by latest November 20th, 2026, as a single PDF file and should include a short letter of motivation explaining how the applicant’s profile and aspirations fit with the job requirements, a brief CV, and the name and contact details of one referee. The first evaluation of applications will take place after the deadline. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The Max Planck Society is one of the leading research organizations in Europe. We offer challenging tasks with a high degree of personal responsibility and creative freedom in research laboratories, workshops, libraries and administration.
The Max Planck Society strives to increase employment of severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled people are expressly encouraged.
Furthermore, the Max Planck Society wants to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore expressly encouraged to apply.
The Little Pumpkins Parents' Association offers childcare for children under the age of 3 at the MPIPZ.
It is possible to apply for a low-cost Germany job ticket with a subsidy from the Institute. The institute also has a rental bike station run by the provider nextbike, as well as the possibility of using rental scooters from various providers.
Interested candidates, please upload your complete application documents, including your preferred starting date.
Have we sparked your interest?
Please apply. We are looking forward to getting your complete application documents.
Website: www.mpipz.mpg.de