"Max Planck Research Group Leader (W2) in Nanoscale Water Research"

The Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research is seeking to recruit an independent Max Planck Research Group Leader (W2 Federal Civil Service Remuneration Act). The position is comparable to that of an associate professor without tenure at a US university.

We offer:

Position Details:

• The Max Planck Research Group is limited to a term of six years, with the possibility of a 3-year extension.
• Your remuneration is based on remuneration group W2 of the Federal Civil Service Remuneration Act (Bundesbesoldungsgesetz – BBesG).
• Besides a competitive salary, the position offers a start-up budget and annual research budget comparable to that of an ERC Starting Grant.
• You will have access to world-class technical support and outstanding scientific infrastructure.

The position is part of a new Liquids Initiative at the MPI for Polymer Research (MPI-P). This initiative focuses on advancing the fundamental understanding of water and its behavior at the nanoscale to address pressing global challenges related to water and energy. This includes improving water purification, desalination, and hydrogen production technologies by leveraging nanoscale insights into water's unique properties. We provide an exciting opportunity to lead cutting-edge research in an interdisciplinary environment at the intersection of fundamental science and technological innovation in one of today’s most critical fields.

Your qualifications:

Candidates are expected to have:

• A PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field with an experimental focus.
• A proven track record of innovation in nanoscale water science or related areas.
• An ambitious and forward-thinking research program that aligns with the Initiative’s goals.
• We are particularly interested in candidates who specialize in experimental approaches to studying the molecular-level properties of water and its interactions in complex environments.
• Within this broad scope, the successful candidate is expected to develop an innovative and independent research agenda that contributes to advancing nanoscale water science.

Your application:

Please submit your application online here as a single PDF file containing:

1. Letter of interest (max. 2 pages)
2. Curriculum Vitae (max. 3 pages, focusing on your most relevant achievements)
3. Research statement (max. 3 pages)
4. Two representative publications
5. Contact information for two academic referees

Questions?

For inquiries about the position, please contact Mischa Bonn, apply-bonn@mpip-mainz.mpg.de.

The Max Planck Society wishes to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of employees with severe disabilities in its workforce. Applications from persons with severe disabilities are expressly desired.

Application deadline: September 30, 2025