The Department of Comparative Development and Genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research in Cologne is seeking a group leader (m/f/d) in the area of Plant Development and Diversity.

The Department operates under the direction of Honorary Professor Dr. Miltos Tsiantis and investigates problems of plant development and diversity. The successful applicant will be expected to build an independent research group to study plant development and/or its natural variation and to collaborate on active research projects in the Department. Of particular interest are candidates that incorporate computational approaches in their research, and dry lab scientists are also welcome to apply. The successful candidate will participate in Graduate Programs and external funding bids, and core funding will be available.

Your profile

We seek candidates with a PhD, who typically will have 2-5 years postdoctoral experience, an excellent publication record, and who use creative approaches to investigate problems of plant development, diversity, and evolution. We are looking for a highly interactive scientist who is able to engage in successful collaborations with colleagues at different levels both within and beyond the Department, and who can participate in the training of younger scientists.

Our offer

Salary and benefits are according to the German TVöD Bund. This is a five-year position with possibilities for renewal. All contractual arrangements are subject to the German public service regulations for the duration of scientific training.

Your application

Interested candidates are invited to submit applications by August 31st 2025, as a single PDF document through the online system consisting of:

• a two-page CV including the names and contact details of two academic referees
• a personal statement explaining their academic accomplishments, motivation for applying for this post, potential synergies with the Department and their outlook on fostering a collegial, collaborative environment to support the training of early career scientists
• a publication list highlighting their 2-3 most relevant papers with a 150-word summary explaining the significance of each
• a two-page statement of research plans for the next five years

An appointment will only be made if a suitable candidate is identified.