Germany Max Planck Institute Göttingen PhD Student Scholarship 2025 in Molecular Biology (Fully Funded)
The Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences in Göttingen, Germany, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD student (f/m/d) position in the Molecular Mechanisms of Membrane Trafficking Research Group led by Dr. Oleksiy Kovtun. This prestigious opportunity is ideal for highly motivated graduates in molecular biology, cellular biology, or structural biology who aspire to pursue cutting-edge research in cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET).
Degree Level
PhD (Doctoral Program)
Available Subjects
Molecular Biology
Cell Biology
Structural Biology
Cryo-Electron Tomography (Cryo-ET)
Biochemistry
Biophysics
Neurosciences and Molecular Biosciences
Benefits
Funding: Fully funded for three years, with possible extension, under the German TVöD Bund public service salary guidelines.
Graduate Training: Enrollment in the Graduate Center for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB) at the University of Göttingen.
Research Training: Hands-on training in cryo-EM, cryo-ET, and advanced structural biology techniques.
Work-Life Balance: On-campus childcare, parent-child offices, vacation care, and flexible family support.
Health & Wellness: Free fitness and yoga rooms, sports groups, and wellness programs.
Career Development: Further training opportunities, free language courses, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Sustainability: Initiatives for a green environment with new eco-friendly facilities.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to all nationalities. The Max Planck Society is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusiveness.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Hold a Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in molecular biology, cellular biology, or structural biology (with a minimum six-month qualification research project).
Proficient in spoken and written English.
Strong motivation for independent research and long-term academic or industry career goals.
Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
Preference will be given to candidates with prior experience in cryo-EM, biochemistry, or related fields.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates must submit the following documents:
A cover letter detailing motivation, research experience, and career goals.
A CV with academic background and publications (if any).
University transcripts and diplomas.
Contact details of at least two academic referees.
Applications should be sent as a single PDF file by August 24, 2025 to:
ausschreibung21-25@mpinat.mpg.dePostal Address:
Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences
Research Group “Molecular Mechanisms of Membrane Trafficking”
Dr. Oleksiy Kovtun
Hermann-Rein-Straße 3, 37075 Göttingen, Germany