Technical assistant (f/m/d) Full-time

Technical Assistant

Scientific and Technical Assistance Leipzig Developmental and Evolutionary Biology & Genetics Behavioral Sciences Cognitive Research

Job Code: CF-12-2026

The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI EVA) brings together scientists from diverse backgrounds (natural sciences and humanities) with the aim of investigating the history of humankind from an interdisciplinary perspective using comparative analyses of genes, cultures, cognitive abilities, languages and social systems of past and present human populations, as well as those of primates closely related to humans.

The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology is one of the leading institutions investigating the evolution of humankind.

The Department of Archaeogenetics utilizes the recent advances in generating genome-wide ancient DNA data to uncover an entirely new spectrum of information retrievable from anthropological and archaeological collections. This data unlocks fascinating insights into genetic relationships, geographical origin, selective processes, or genetic structure of historic and prehistoric human, plant, animal, or pathogen populations.

Your Place of Work

Innexis/Pharmapark, Otto-Schott-Straße 15, 07745 Jena

Your Tasks

• Independent coordination of sample processing in large international projects with several hundred or thousands of individuals
• Sample documentation, and contamination-free sampling and processing of highly sensitive pre/historic archaeological human, animal and plant remains
• Planning and executing complex molecular genetic experiments inside clean room facilities (optional automated DNA extraction and single-stranded DNA library preparation for Illumina Next Generation sequencing, operating the pipetting robots)
• Archiving, documentation and planning of experiment setups. Writing and presenting progress reports.
• Updating the in-house LIMS system by entering all sample relevant data, results and files into the database
• Introductory training and supervision of new staff and international guests; coordination of student assistants
• Participation in weekly working group meetings as well as project meetings (in English); discussing work procedures, project progress and project status

Your Profile

• Background in human anatomy, osteology or physical anthropology, and preferably also of faunal and floral archaeological remains.
• Familiarity with archaeological research, radiocarbon dating techniques and taphonomic processes.
• Vocational or university training as a biological or medical technical assistant, comparable or higher qualification.
• Experience with working under sterile, DNA-free conditions, and preferably also with professional experience as a technical assistant in a molecular genetics laboratory.
• Ability to work in a team, sense of responsibility, diligence and reliability
• Very good command of the English language
• Excellent computer skills and familiarity with large-scale databases
• Willingness and interest to work with skeletal remains (bones, teeth) and other tissue types (hair, mummified skin, palaeofaeces, sediments, etc.)

What We Offer

• A stimulating job in a young, scientifically oriented, international team in one of the most renowned research institutions worldwide
• The position is funded according to the German TVöD pay scale
• Social benefits in accordance with the regulations of the public service
• The position is initially limited to 2 years, with the possibility of extension

Your Application

Have we piqued your interest? Please submit your application in German or English via our application portal by the end of the business day, August 9th, 2026, including the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Your CV
• Copies of relevant certificates, letters of support/reference

The Max Planck Society and the Department of Archaeogenetics of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology are very committed to equal opportunities, diversity, and gender equality. We actively support the compatibility of work and family and have set ourselves the goal of employing more severely disabled people as well as groups that are underrepresented in science and especially in the given field of activity. Therefore, we explicitly encourage them to apply and welcome applications from all backgrounds.