Max Planck Research Group Leader (W2) in Molecular Design

The Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (MPIP) in Mainz invites applications for Max Planck Research Group Leaders (W2 Federal Civil Service Remuneration Act – Bundesbesoldungsgesetz) in Molecular Design.

Your profile

We are looking for exceptional early-career scientists conducting computational research with a proven record of accomplishment. The primary focus of this call is on candidates proposing research on biomolecular design by generative modeling. Prior achievements in developing new methods will be highly regarded.

We would particularly encourage proposals in the following research topics:

• New Machine Learning-based approaches for de novo design of (bio)molecules
• Applications of generative models to biological or materials science problems

Our offer

Max Planck Research Group Leaders at the MPIP receive a core support package with funds for personnel and consumables, which can be expanded by attracting external third-party funding. Access to the excellent high-performance computing infrastructure of the Max Planck Society, and, if desired, MPIP’s wet-lab infrastructure will be provided. Successful candidates will develop an independent research program in an interactive and cross-disciplinary environment. The MPIP also provides access to a rich collaborative network within the Max Planck Society and close links to our partner university, the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz.

The successful candidate will be appointed for six years. Depending on the progress of the work and taking into account the financial possibilities and those under labour legislation, the Max Planck Research Group can be extended at maximum by three years on an individual basis according to scientific criteria and after a positive evaluation in each case. Remuneration will be paid on the basis of remuneration group W2 of the Federal Civil Service Remuneration Act (Bundesbesoldungsgesetz).

Your application

Applications should include:

• a cover letter explaining your motivation to apply for this position
• a Curriculum Vitae including publication list
• a statement of scientific achievements (~500 words)
• a two-page summary of your future research plans (~1000 words)
• up to three of your most important papers
• names and contact details of 3 academic references

Applications and inquiries should be sent to Prof. Dr. Frauke Gräter (fgraeter@mpip-mainz.mpg.de), scientific member and director at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research by May 11, 2025. The appointment can commence as early as October 1, 2025. Please refer to our websites for further information about MPIP. 

• The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.
• The Max Planck Society wishes to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply.
• 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.