Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) in Macromolecular Compartmentalization and Genome Stability

The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG) and the adjacent Center for Systems Biology Dresden (CSBD) are basic research institutes that pursue a mission to advance multiscale biological discovery using interdisciplinary approaches including innovative, cutting-edge mathematics, physics, and computation. Currently about 500 employees from over 50 countries work at the institute in a highly collaborative and curiosity-driven environment. MPI-CBG has twice been awarded the title “Best Place to Work” (Academia and postdocs) by the journal “The Scientist”. Employees appreciate the collegial atmosphere, as well as the family-friendly and flexible working conditions. The official language of the institute is English.

The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG)
is seeking a

Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d)
in Macromolecular Compartmentalization and Genome Stability

The research group of Nagaraja Chappidi investigates how macromolecular assemblies and compartment-like structures contribute to accurate DNA replication and DNA repair. The research combines purified replication and repair factors with quantitative biochemical and biophysical approaches—such as TIRF microscopy and optical tweezers—and integrates these findings with cell-based and, where appropriate, disease-relevant models. Key questions include how replication and repair factors self-organize into mesoscale structures, which emergent biophysical properties arise from this organization, and how such compartmentalization improves accuracy, efficiency, and regulation of genome maintenance. The overarching goal is to define the principles governing coordinated factor assembly, selective compartment formation, spatial confinement of enzymatic activities, and the timely exchange of substrates between molecular players.

Your role:

As a postdoc in the Chappidi group, you will drive independent and collaborative research to dissect the mechanistic principles of compartmentalization in DNA replication and DNA repair.  Depending on your background and interests, you may contribute to:

• reconstituting multi-protein assemblies
• performing quantitative single-molecule or imaging experiments
• developing novel biophysical or biochemical assays
• validating emergent principles in mammalian cells or disease models
• integrating concepts across biophysics, biochemistry, and genome maintenance
  
  You will also present your findings at internal meetings and international conferences, contribute to publications, and support a positive and collegial team culture.

Essential qualifications

• Doctoral degree (PhD) in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Biophysics, or a related life-science field
  Strong motivation, reliability, and ability to work both independently and with a team.
• Experience contributing to scientific publications or presentations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

Desirable skills and experience

• Knowledge and hands-on expertise in single-molecule biophysical methods (TIRF microscopy, optical tweezers).
• Protein biochemistry, including purification and quantitative assay development.
• Cell-based techniques (mammalian cell culture, imaging).
• Effective collaboration in interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong analytical reasoning and persistence in experimental work.

Our offer:

• A full-time position in a vibrant, international research environment.
• An initial contract of 2 years, with the possibility of extension upon mutual agreement.
• Salary and social benefits in accordance with TVöD Bund (up to EG13), based on experience.
• Attractive public-sector benefits (VBL pension plan, 30 days annual leave, full social coverage).
• Discounted public-transport job ticket (VVO) and excellent transport connections.
• Support for work–life balance, including assistance with family and childcare matters.
• A broad network for career development and training through the Max Planck Society.

Your Application:

Please submit your complete application via our online system at https://careers.mpi-cbg.de/jobs/61323807/Postdoctoral-Researcher-m-f-d-in-Macromolecular-Compartmentalization-and-Genome-Stability/ stating 2025-Postdoc-GenomeCompartmentalization-2560 by 7 January 2026. Kindly include the following:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including publication list
• A one-page motivation letter
• A two-page statement of research interests and scientific achievements 
• Contact details of at least two referees as a single pdf file

Scientific inquiries can be sent to Nagaraja Chappidi (chappidi@mpi-cbg.de). Questions regarding contract, compensation or benefits may be addressed to Brian von Rueden (hr@mpi-cbg.de). 

Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics
Pfotenhauerstr. 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany
http://www.mpi-cbg.de

• The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age, and other components of identity.
•  The Max Planck Society specifically aims to increase the proportion of women in the areas in which they are underrepresented. We therefore explicitly invite women to apply.
• The Max Planck Society is further committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.
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