Postdoctoral Research Fellow (m/f/d) Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (m/f/d)

The “Molecular Metabolism & Energy Homeostasis” group is investigating molecular mechanisms controlling mitochondrial function, maintaining energy homeostasis, and protecting against age-related decline. We are seeking a highly motivated and creative postdoctoral fellow with a PhD (or near completion) in biochemistry, molecular or cellular biology, or a related field. The ideal candidate should be capable of working independently, bringing critical thinking and a problem-solving mindset to the group.

The Max Planck Research Group “Molecular Metabolism & Energy Homeostasis” headed by Dr. Hans-Georg Sprenger is looking for a full time postdoctoral fellow, starting May 1, 2026.

Your tasks

• Investigate the role of small molecules in controlling energy homeostasis by regulating mitochondrial function
• Design and perform molecular studies using mammalian cell culture and mouse models
• Independently analyze data and develop innovative experiments
• Support the preparation of funding proposals, fellowship applications & publications
• Present research findings at internal seminars and international conferences
• Stay up to date with relevant literature
• Supervise students and PhD candidates

Your qualifications

• Strong track record of scientific accomplishments is essential
• Prior hands-on experience in cell culture, mouse work, biochemical assays or metabolomics is highly desirable
• We particularly value individuals who work well in a team and think creatively
• A FELASA certificate for work with laboratory animals would be considered a strong asset
• Candidates with expertise in muscle or fat biology, mitochondrial biology and/or metabolomics will be given preferential consideration
• Experience in supervising or mentoring junior lab members, such as master's or undergraduate students, is considered a strong asset and reflects the collaborative spirit we foster in our team

Our offer

• A performance-related salary in accordance with the TVöD Bund and a company pension scheme (VBL)
• A collaborative and inclusive working atmosphere in a motivated and friendly team, the opportunity for regular further training and a targeted induction programme
• Flexible working hours
• Max Planck family office, support through an external family service company, places available via daycare centre partnerships
• Fitness room and discounts at local fitness centres
• Very good public transport connections and a discounted and subsidised Germany job ticket

The employment contract is based on the TVöD-Bund (collective agreement for the public service) and will initially run for three years, with a possibility for extension after this period. The Max Planck Society endeavours to achieve gender equality and diversity, and therefore seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and explicitly encourages women to apply. Furthermore, 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.

If you are interested, then please upload your complete application documents, containing a one-page letter with a personal statement describing your scientific accomplishments and your interests in our laboratory, your CV including list of publications, as well as contact information for 3 references in electronic form, as one single pdf-file via our online application platform.