PhD Student (f-m-d) Enhance Activities in Computational Homogeneous Catalysis

Application until2026-01-17

Start of work2 February 2026

Scope of work39 h

The Department of (Prof. Dr. Matthias Stein) at the is inviting applications for the PhD Student (f/m/d) position.

The Max Planck Institute in Magdeburg is a high profile research institution.

Research topic: "Enhance Activities in Computational Homogeneous Catalysis”.

This is a PhD position in Computational Chemistry, located in Magdeburg, Germany. The selected candidate will be responsible for conducting research in computational chemistry, developing computational models, analyzing molecular systems, and interpreting chemical data. The project aims at developing a sustainable workflow to design new and 'greener' catalysts and appropriate solvent systems.
The role involves collaboration with experimental partners in interdisciplinary teams, participation in academic discussions, and contributing to scientific publications.

Your Tasks

Multi-scale simulations of reaction pathways in homogeneous catalysis
Computational design of novel non-precious catalysts
Assessment and development of newly designed workflows
Setup of data-driven models to predict properties of catalytic reactions

Your Qualifications

Strong foundation in Computational Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, or Molecular Modeling
Proficiency in coding and scripting languages such as Python, R, or similar, as well as experience with computational software used in Chemistry
Analytical skills and experience in scientific data analysis
Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary environments
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with experience in preparing scientific publications or presentations
A Master's degree in Chemistry, Physics, Biophysics, or a related field is required; prior research experience is advantageous
Curiosity-driven mindset with a strong interest in advancing the field of computational chemistry
Working knowledge of Linux operating systems and job scheduling

We offer

Remuneration in salary group E13, 75 % (public sector, TVöD-Bund)
Job with a fixed-term employment contract in the public sector for a term of 36 months.
Working in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment
State-of-the-art computing facilities
Opportunity to attend national and international scientific conference
Possibility of training and personal development

The is committed to equal opportunities, gender equality, and diversity. What counts for us are your qualifications, professional strengths, and the candidates’ attitude. We, therefore, welcome all applications regardless of gender, cultural or social background, disability, religion, age, lifestyle, ideology or sexual identity.
Increasing the proportion of women in areas where women are underrepresented is a primary goal of the Max Planck Society. We are therefore particularly interested in applications from qualified women and expressly encourage them to apply.
The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal to employ more severely disabled people. Severely disabled persons and persons of equal status will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified. Applications from severely disabled people are, therefore, expressly encouraged.

Applications are evaluated continuously on a rolling basis until the position is filled. We intend to start that PhD project by 2 February 2026 at the latest. You may upload your application, including cover letter, curriculum vitae, Bachelor and Master certificates via our application portal below.

Contact person for further information on the job advertisement:

(Head of MSD Group)