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Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie

Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie
Vollzeit, Befristet
Potsdam

Postdoc (m/f/d) position on molecular mechanisms of nutrient exchange in arbuscular mycorrhiza symbiosis

The MPI of Molecular Plant Physiology in Potsdam is looking for a Postdoc (m/f/d) in the group „Mycorrhiza and Root Biology” of Prof. Dr. Caroline Gutjahr. The starting date is as soon as possible. Background:

The candidate will conduct high impact research on novel plant molecular mechanisms regulating and executing nutrient exchange between plants and arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi in the frame of the ‘ funded by the European Research Council. Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) is a symbiosis between about 80% of land plant species and fungi of the Glomeromycotina that improves plant nutrition with mineral nutrients. The fungi transfer mineral nutrients from the soil, especially phosphate to the plant, and receive carbon sources in the form of hexoses and lipids in return.

What we expect:

  • A doctoral degree (or being close to its finalization) in Biology or a related subject, preferably with a specialization in molecular, synthetic or plant molecular biology
  • Experience in:
  • Molecular biology techniques
  • Handling of plants and/or fungi
  • Statistical data evaluation methods
  • transporter biology is a strong plus
  • Molecular biology of AM/root nodule symbiosis is a strong plus
  • experience in the analysis of complex RNAseq data is a strong plus
  • A minimum of one first author publication in a respected international research journal
  • Very good command of English (oral and written)
  • Curiosity, a strong motivation to excel in science, and a ‘can-do’ attitude
  • A collaborative mind-set and good communication skills
  • Efficiency and good organizational skills
  • A positive attitude towards interacting with colleagues from different backgrounds and cultures

The project is NOT suitable for persons with a background in ecology, agronomy or agricultural sciences, except if the background includes a strong training in molecular and/or synthetic biology.

What we offer:

  • Postdoc position for initially two years with possibility for extension until minimum July 2029, paid according to German public service pay scale (E13 TVöD Bund)
  • Support and mentoring for scientific and career development
  • A stimulating environment in a dynamic, international team of cooperative and motivated scientists
  • Access to the infrastructure of one of the leading plant science institutes
  • Working in the beautiful town of Potsdam and near by the exciting urban area of Berlin

How to apply:

Please upload your application by 30th June 2026 here. Please DO NOT apply by email.

Screening of applications will start at the 1st of June and if a highly suitable person is found an offer may be made before the 30th of June.

Please include these documents into your application:

  • CV
  • Publication list
  • Contact information of minimum 2 referees (no reference letters)
  • Motivation letter explaining why you are interested in the project, in joining the group and why you are the right person to make progress in the field. Candidates are invited to read the major publications of our group before application.

For further information please contact Caroline Gutjahr. If you want to know more about the institute or the group, please have a look on our .