Biology Postdoc at Max Planck Institute, Germany | Developmental Biology and Single-Cell Research
How do changes in cell fate and gene activity produce the diversity of plant shapes? This Biology postdoc at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research in Cologne, Germany, combines single-cell and spatial approaches to investigate plant organ development. The position welcomes researchers with expertise in molecular biology, single-cell methods, and next-generation sequencing analysis.
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) – Developmental Biology
- Location: Cologne, Germany
- Department: Comparative Development and Genetics
- Research Lead: Director Miltos Tsiantis
- Posting Date: October 29, 2026
About The Institute and Research Group
The Department of Comparative Development and Genetics investigates plant organ development, morphological diversity, and cell fate switches. The selected researcher will work closely with Miltos Tsiantis and his group, contributing to the laboratory’s research activities, including the ERC Advanced Grant project CLONAL.
Biology Postdoc Description
The researcher will integrate single-cell and spatial experimental approaches to understand organ development and plant diversification. The work involves generating and analyzing high-throughput sequencing data to investigate the genetic basis of morphological diversity.
The position suits a creative, highly motivated scientist who can apply single-cell expertise within a collaborative research team.
Biology Postdoc – Key Responsibilities
- Design, conduct, and analyze experiments investigating plant development.
- Generate high-throughput sequencing data using single-cell and associated approaches.
- Integrate single-cell and spatial methods into comparative developmental research.
- Contribute to research on organ shape development, diversity, and cell fate switches.
- Apply and improve relevant emerging methods while maintaining reproducible research practices.
- Collaborate with group members towards shared scientific goals.
Educational Requirements and Eligibility For Biology Postdoc
- Qualification: PhD in Biology or Bioinformatics.
- Graduation Requirement: Doctoral degree awarded in 2024 or later.
- Strong expertise in molecular biology and single-cell approaches.
- Strong expertise in next-generation sequencing data analysis.
- High-quality publications demonstrating the required skills.
Skills and Qualifications
- Proficiency in Python or R.
- Familiarity with Linux, shell scripting, genomic tools, and datasets.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Structured working practices and a strong commitment to reproducibility.
- Ability to learn, apply, and improve current research methods.
- Strong teamwork, communication, and multitasking skills.
Desirable Expertise: Genetic validation of single-cell data, for example using CRISPR genome editing.
Contract and Research Development
The appointment is initially for two years, with excellent possibilities of extension, subject to German regulations governing the duration of scientific training. Salary and specific benefits are not stated in the supplied posting.
Biology Postdoc – Application Documents
Submit your application in English as a single PDF, including:
- A short motivation letter explaining how your profile and aspirations match the role.
- A publication list.
- Names and contact details of two academic referees.
Application Details
- Application Deadline: January 4, 2027.
- First Application Evaluation: January 4, 2027.
- Application Method: Online submission.
- Selection Update: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Interested in connecting single-cell biology with the evolution of plant form? This Biology postdoc at the Max Planck Institute offers the opportunity to combine experimental and computational approaches in developmental research. If your doctoral background and technical expertise match the requirements, submit your application by January 4, 2027.
Questions and comments