Max Planck Society 
Dortmund, Germany Sintesi dell’opportunità
The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology in Dortmund offers a fully funded two‑year postdoctoral position in Structural Biology of Immune Signaling, starting November 2026. The role involves designing and applying advanced experimental techniques—such as genetic engineering, protein purification, advanced microscopy, and cryo‑EM—to uncover the structural basis of immune signalling mechanisms. Candidates should hold a recent PhD in a related field, have strong experimental and problem‑solving skills, and a solid publication record. The position provides access to state‑of‑the‑art imaging infrastructure, a dynamic international team, and career development support. Applications (CV, motivation letter, project proposal, two references) are due 15 September 2026.
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Descrizione del progetto
Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) | Structural Biology of Immune Signaling
Scientist Dortmund Structural and Cell Biology Physiology Chemistry
Job Code: 17/2026
Job Offer from August 18, 2026
A fully funded postdoctoral position is available in the Structural Cell Biology group led by Dr. Katerina Naydenova at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology in Dortmund, Germany. The position is available from November 2026 and is initially limited to 2 years. The successful candidate will join an international team with access to state-of-the-art imaging and structural biology infrastructure.
Project and responsibilities
The researcher will investigate the structural basis for fundamental cellular mechanisms in immune signaling using cell biology and biochemical approaches, in combination with structural methods. Responsibilities include:
- Designing and applying advanced experimental techniques to achieve project goals
- Conducting independent, high-level research and contributing to project direction
- Solving complex technical challenges using novel approaches
- Presenting results, publishing scientific work, establishing experimental protocols and maintaining accurate records
- Training of team members and establishing experimental protocols
- Contributing to collaborative discussions and the overall functioning of the group
Candidate profile
- PhD in cell biology, physiology, biochemistry, structural biology, immunology or a related field (completed within the last 12 months or imminent)
- Strong experimental skills, creativity in problem-solving and proven interest in mechanistic cell biology
- Experience in any of the in relevant areas: genetic engineering in eukaryotic cell lines, protein purification (recombinant and native), advanced optical microscopy, in vitro reconstitution of large complexes, membrane proteins, cryogenic electron tomography
- Proven research track record (publications/preprints)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Excellent communication skills and excitement about all areas of research
What we offer
- Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure
- Dynamic young team within a collaborative, international research environment
- Training, mentoring, and career development opportunities
Salary
Compensation follows TVöD BUND guidelines and includes standard benefits equivalent to those in the public sector.
Application
Submit a CV, a 1-page motivation letter, a 1-page project proposal, and two reference letters by September 15, 2026, to Katerina Naydenova (katerina.naydenova@mpi-dortmund.mpg.de). Informal inquiries are welcome. Applications containing AI-generated text will not be considered.
Additional information
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. 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. The Max Planck Society is committed to diversity and equal opportunity and strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
For further information about this position, please contact Dr. Katerina Naydenova (katerina.naydenova@mpi-dortmund.mpg.de).