The Max Planck Institute for Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG) in Dresden is an international research institute focusing on cell and developmental biology. Currently, approximately 500 employees from over 50 countries work in a highly collaborative and curiosity-driven environment, bringing together computer scientists, theoretical physicists, mathematicians, engineers, biologists, and medical researchers to conduct groundbreaking interdisciplinary research. The MPI-CBG is known for its flat organizational structure, collegiality, shared resources, equal opportunities, and family support. The institute has twice been voted “Best Place to Work” by The Scientist magazine.
Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) in Next-Generation Optical Instruments
The Max Planck Institute for Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG) in Dresden is an international research institute focusing on cell and developmental biology. Currently, approximately 500 employees from over 50 countries work in a highly collaborative and curiosity-driven environment, bringing together computer scientists, theoretical physicists, mathematicians, engineers, biologists, and medical researchers to conduct groundbreaking interdisciplinary research. The MPI-CBG is known for its flat organizational structure, collegiality, shared resources, equal opportunities, and family support. The institute has twice been voted “Best Place to Work” by The Scientist magazine. The official language of the institute is English.
The Grill and Weber groups are seeking a
Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d)
in Next-Generation Optical Instruments
Optical microscopy is an essential tool for studying dynamic biological processes, and the development of novel instrumentation has advanced our understanding of biology over the past few decades. As a postdoctoral researcher in this joint project, you will develop an innovative instrument to study interactions between DNA and transcription factors and elucidate the physical processes underlying the specificity of gene regulation. You will take a leading role in:
- designing, building, and characterising a custom optical instrument
- applying the instrument to biophysical studies of transcription factor–DNA interactions
- independently planning and carrying out the associated scientific and technical development work
- collaborating closely with researchers from both groups in an interdisciplinary environment
Research Environment:
The Weber Group works on Nanoscale Optical Bioimaging, and develops innovative optical microscopy techniques to create new tools for studying biology processes in real time at nanoscale resolution. Our lab approaches scientific challenges by combining ideas from different disciplines at the interface of biology, chemistry, physics and engineering.
The Grill Group studies how physical principles shape life. Its current work on genome organisation combines theory, in vitro reconstitution and optical tweezers to investigate collective transcription factor–DNA interactions.
Essential qualifications:
- doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in a relevant field, such as physics, biology, chemistry, or engineering
- strong hands-on experience in designing, building, or modifying custom optical systems
- experience in independently planning and performing scientific and technical development projects
- excellent written and spoken English
- ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment
- strong motivation, reliability, and ability to work in an interdisciplinary team
Desirable skills:
- experience in development, preferably with scanned microscopes, optical tweezers, or related single-molecule instrumentation.
- experience with optical simulation software such as Zemax, CODE V, Quadoa, or equivalent
- experience in scientific or instrument control software development
- experience in computer aided design (CAD)
Our offer:
- a full-time position in a supportive and stimulating working environment in a world-class institute
- an initial contract of 3 years, with the possibility of extension upon mutual agreement
- salary and social benefits (30 days annual leave, full social coverage, VBl pension)
- discounted public-transport job ticket (VVO)
- a broad network for career development and training through the Max Planck Society
Application:
The application should include a cover letter indicating the motivation to apply for this position, a CV, the names of potential references, and a short statement of the candidate’s previous research accomplishments (<1 page). Please submit your application by 13.10.2026 stating the Code 2026-Postdoc-Bioimaging via our online system at https://careers.mpi-cbg.de/.
For informal inquiries about the position, please get in touch with Dr. Michael Weber via email: weber@mpi-cbg.de. For questions about the contract or compensation, please contact Brian von Rueden, Head of Human Resources, via 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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