Postdoctoral researcher (m/f/d)

Job Code: 02-2024

Job Offer from February 29, 2024

The Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology , located in Marburg, is a distinguished research institution under the auspices of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science. As a prominent contributor to basic research in microbiology, the institute is currently home to approximately 300 individuals dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge. An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, and we are actively seeking qualified candidates (m/f/d) to fill a Postdoctoral researcher position as soon as possible.

The Job

• Fixed-term contract 1.5 years with possibility of prolongation

Joining the dynamic research group "HAPPY," you will play a key role in the optimization and validation of a microfluidic chip designed for age determination in budding yeasts, specifically Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Leveraging a patented chip geometry as your foundation, you'll embark on an exciting journey of innovation, crafting new chip designs from inception to reality within our state-of-the-art clean room facility. Your responsibilities will extend to meticulous testing to ensure the efficacy of your creations.

This technological advancement aligns with a broader commercialization initiative, envisioning the establishment of a microfluidic start-up. As a valued team member, you will not only contribute to the refinement of cutting-edge technology but will also have the unique opportunity to actively engage in entrepreneurial endeavors and actively participate in shaping the future of the company. This role promises a blend of scientific excellence and entrepreneurial spirit, providing a rewarding platform for professional growth and innovation.

• Designing microfluidic chips (PDMS-based) for microbial cultivation.
• Fabricating microfluidic chips.
• Performing microbial cultivations using the designed chips.
• Validating and optimizing microfluidic chip designs.
• Documenting and publishing scientific results.
• Collaborating with industrial partners.

• Ph.D. in microfluidics, microbiology, or a relevant and comparable discipline.
• Experience in designing, fabricating, and validating microfluidic chips, specifically PDMS-based ones.
• Demonstrated interest in conducting experimental work within a modern, application-oriented research and development environment, coupled with a strong desire to translate personal ideas into innovative technical solutions.
• Possesses an independent working style, excellent teamwork abilities, and creative and analytical thinking skills.
• Fluent in both spoken and written English, with strong communication skills.

• Engaging and diverse engineering tasks with a strong practical focus.
• An interdisciplinary workspace featuring a wide array of in-house development, manufacturing, and measurement technologies, maintaining high standards in research and development processes.
• Personal autonomy to explore and develop creative ideas.
• An open, result-oriented, and collaborative atmosphere.
• Flexible working hours fostering an optimal work-life balance.
• An interactive and collegial international environment within a well-connected institute.
• The opportunity to contribute to and be a part of a microfluidics-based startup company.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

We actively support the compatibility of career and family. The Max Planck Society is dedicated to gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds

For content-related questions, please contact Dr. Nicole Paczia [email protected]

Please submit your application by March 20, 2024, preferably electronically via email (attachments as a single PDF file) to the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Human Resources, Reference Number 02-2024, Karl-von-Frisch-Straße 10, 35043 Marburg.

E-mail: [email protected]

Note: Please submit application documents only in copy. We appreciate your understanding that application documents will not be returned."