Plant Science Jobs in Germany
Two MPIPZ Research Support Positions 2026
The Department of Comparative Development and Genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research is recruiting two full-time research-support professionals to work on plant development, genetics and diversity in Cologne.
Deadline: 20 November 2026
Cologne, Germany
Position overview
The Department of Comparative Development and Genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research (MPIPZ) in Cologne seeks to fill two Research Support positions (m/f/d). The successful applicants will contribute to daily laboratory work focused on the mechanisms underlying plant development and diversity.
The positions are full-time and may begin as soon as possible, but no later than February 2027. The initial contracts are for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
Main responsibilities
- Help cultivate and characterize developmental traits in plant strains derived from mutagenesis, wild collections and transgenic plants.
- Generate new transgenic plants.
- Carry out molecular-biology work such as genomic DNA extraction, PCR and cloning.
- Support plant-genetics experiments and the handling and cultivation of plants.
- Help maintain laboratory genetic collections and prepare culture media.
- Assist with organization and the daily operation of an S1 laboratory.
Experience with Arabidopsis, transgenic plants, CRISPR/Cas mutants or plant viruses is considered a strong asset. Interest or experience in single-cell approaches is also welcomed.
Who should apply?
The institute is seeking highly motivated candidates who meet one of the following educational profiles:
- Completed professional training as a research technician with initial professional experience; or
- A bachelor’s degree in plant genetics or an equivalent discipline, with relevant work experience or an additional educational qualification.
Applicants should have an organized working style, well-developed teamwork skills and enthusiasm for scientific research in an international environment. Excellent documentation skills, computer literacy—including Microsoft Office and electronic laboratory-book applications—and fluent English are required.
Required application documents
Applications must be submitted in English as one single PDF file containing:
- A short cover or motivation letter explaining how your profile and ambitions match the position.
- A brief curriculum vitae.
- The name and contact details of one referee.
- Your preferred starting date.
Employment benefits
- Stimulating, varied work in a friendly international research environment.
- Pay according to the German public-sector TVöD scale, based on qualifications and experience.
- Subsidized low-cost Germany job ticket.
- Access to a rental-bike station from a nearby provider and rental scooters from multiple providers.
- Childcare support through the Little Pumpkins Parents’ Association for children under three at MPIPZ.
How to apply
- Prepare the required documents in English.
- Combine all documents into one PDF file.
- Use the official online application link supplied with the vacancy announcement.
- Submit no later than 20 November 2026. The notice does not state an exact closing time or time zone, so early submission is recommended.
Selection process
The first evaluation of applications will take place after the deadline. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The Max Planck Society encourages applications from women and from severely disabled applicants, who are expressly encouraged to apply.
Frequently asked questions
Are these PhD or postdoctoral positions?
No. The advertisement is for two full-time Research Support positions.
Is a PhD required?
No. The notice accepts appropriately trained research technicians or applicants with a bachelor’s degree in plant genetics or an equivalent discipline, together with relevant experience or additional qualifications.
Is the job open to international applicants?
The notice describes an international work environment and requires applications in English. It does not list a nationality restriction. Candidates should confirm any visa or work-permit requirements directly with the employer.
What is the exact salary?
No fixed figure is published. Pay follows the TVöD scale and depends on the successful applicant’s experience and qualifications.
Verify before applying
Review the current information through the official MPIPZ vacancies page and the official application system before submitting. ScholarshipHubNow does not reproduce the employer’s complete vacancy notice.
Application checklist
Before submitting, check the following items carefully:
- Your motivation letter clearly connects your technical experience to plant development, molecular biology and genetics.
- Your CV highlights hands-on work with plants, DNA extraction, PCR, cloning, transgenics, CRISPR/Cas, plant viruses or laboratory organization where applicable.
- Your referee’s name and current contact details are included.
- Your preferred starting date is stated.
- Every document is in English and combined into one readable PDF.
- The application is submitted before 20 November 2026 rather than waiting for an unspecified final-hour cutoff.
Related international opportunities
Sources
- MPIPZ official vacancies page
- Official MPIPZ vacancy notice: “2x Research Support positions (m/f/d)”
- Application link shared with the vacancy announcement
ScholarshipHubNow is an independent information website and is not affiliated with MPIPZ or the Max Planck Society. Applicants should verify all details through the official application system before submitting.