MPI EVA Post-doctoral Researcher in Ancient Pathogen Genomics, Leipzig, Germany (Vacancy 693)

Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI EVA) in Leipzig, Germany, is recruiting a Post-doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) in ancient pathogen genomics. A PhD in a relevant discipline is required. Applications are accepted until 1 December 2026.

Job Details

Organization: Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI EVA)

Department: Department of Archaeogenetics

Location: Leipzig, Germany

Position: Post-doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)

Vacancy: 693

Pay Scale: E13 TVöD

Employment Type: Full-time two-year renewable contract

Start Date: As soon as possible

Application Deadline: 1 December 2026

Job Description

The postdoctoral researcher will focus on reconstructing ancient pathogen genomes from archaeological contexts. Data will come from archaeological bone spanning the Neolithic to post-Medieval periods across a broad geography, with emphasis on Eurasian and American populations. Results should be interpreted in the context of human history and pathogen evolution.

Key Responsibilities

  • Computational detection of ancient pathogen DNA in large metagenomic datasets.
  • Genomic reconstruction using reference-based and de novo assembly approaches.
  • Extensive comparative analyses that integrate ancient DNA with large collections of modern bacterial genomes.

Eligibility Criteria

  • A PhD in a relevant discipline such as microbiology, biology, bioinformatics, computer science, mathematics, population genetics, or a closely related field is required.
  • Prior experience with recombining organisms is preferred but not essential.
  • Candidates should share an interest in human history and evolutionary biology.

Required Skills

  • Strong bioinformatics skills and a working knowledge of basic statistical methods are required.
  • Oral presentation competence and experience supervising or mentoring students are assets.

How to Apply

  1. Submit one English-language PDF via the Max Planck / MPI EVA application portal linked from the vacancy page.
  2. The PDF must include a detailed CV.
  3. The PDF must include a cover letter outlining qualifications, suitability and interest in the team.
  4. The PDF must include contact details for three referees.

Informal Enquiries: Dr. Kirsten Bos ([email protected])

Additional Information

Institute Address: Deutscher Platz 6, 04103 Leipzig, Germany

Institute Website: www.eva.mpg.de

The Max Planck Society encourages applications from women and from individuals with disabilities.

CLICK HERE FOR THE ORIGINAL NOTIFICATION / APPLY ONLINE

Applications are accepted until 1 December 2026. Submit one English-language PDF via the MPI EVA application portal linked from the vacancy page.