PhD student for Soft matter electron microscopy (m/f/d)

Deadline
31.05.2026

Start of work
01.08.2026

Working time model
Full time

About us

Colloids and interfaces consist of very small or thin structures with linear dimensions between nanometers and micrometers. On the one hand, the possible structures represent a „world of hidden dimensions“. On the other hand, the dynamics and structures of these small entities determine the behavior of much larger systems such as organisms.

The Department of Sustainable and Bioinspired Materials (Director Prof. Dr. Silvia Vignolini) at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces (MPICI) in Potsdam Science Park, Germany announces the position of a PhD student for soft matter electron microsopy (m/f/d).

Cellulose, the most abundant and renewable biopolymer on Earth, plays a critical role in numerous industries. Its remarkable properties, including mechanical strength and thermal and chemical stabilities, are rooted in the unique hierarchical structure of cellulose. In the newly funded ERC project, ArCeS, the Soft Matter Electron Microscopy Group aims to understand the intricate molecular processes underlying cellulose biocrystallization and utilize it as a sustainable platform for functional material production.

Your tasks and qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in Biophysics, Materials Science or closely related fields.
The candidate should have a profile showing the following qualities:

a degree in biophysics, materials science or a closely related field
Knowledge and experience in soft matter characterization (TEM, SEM, AFM, etc.) is beneficial but not required
Ability for both independent and team work
Strong interest in interdisciplinary research
Language skills in German and English in speech and writing

What we offer

an interesting and varied job in an international working environment
remuneration of 3,185.72 Euros before taxes
conditions and social benefits of the public sector
flexible working hours
compatibility of family and career (e.g. company Kindergarten)
subsidy for the job ticket
canteen, with an offer of meat, vegetarian and vegan dishes
outdoor sports facilities on campus

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

The position is available starting from 01.08.2026 for a period of 36 months.

Please submit your application by online-application-management-tool, with attached PDF versions of your CV including a publication list, and a short motivation letter containing your skills and experiences related to electron microscopy, soft matter characterization, and/or biophysics.

For further information about the Institute see .