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Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie

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

Two Postdoctoral Positions (m/f/d) in Plant Epigenetics and Small RNA Biology

We are seeking two highly motivated postdoctoral researchers to join the ERC-funded project GRAFT, which aims to uncover how grafting can induce heritable epigenetic changes in plants through the movement of small RNAs (sRNAs). Using tomato as both a model system and an important crop species, the project will investigate how rootstocks can reprogram the germline of grafted plants, enabling the generation of stable, heritable traits without genetic modification. Background:

The positions are available in the at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology in Potsdam, Germany. The Köhler lab is broadly interested in understanding the roles of small RNAs in plant reproduction and transgenerational inheritance. The project builds on recent discoveries from the laboratory demonstrating long-distance movement of small RNAs from roots to shoots and their influence on pollen development.

The successful candidates will contribute to one or both of the following research areas:

  • Elucidating the movement, targeting, and biological functions of graft-transmissible small RNAs.
  • Investigating the mechanisms, inheritance, and long-term stability of graft-induced epigenetic modifications.

The project combines plant molecular biology, genomics, epigenetics, and bioinformatics to address fundamental questions in plant biology while exploring innovative approaches for non-transgenic crop improvement.

The starting date is flexible.

What we expect:

Applicants should hold a PhD in biology or a related field and have a strong interest in plant molecular biology and epigenetics. Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable:

  • Plant molecular biology and genetics
  • Small RNA biology
  • Epigenetics and chromatin biology
  • Genomics and next-generation sequencing
  • Bioinformatics and computational analysis of sequencing data

Candidates should have a strong track record of scientific achievement, demonstrated by first-author publications and/or preprints. Excellent organizational skills, the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, and fluency in written and spoken English are essential.

What we offer:

  • Two Postdoc positions for initially two years with the possibility for extension
  • Salary and benefits according to German public service pay scale (E13 TVöD Bund)
  • Support and mentoring for scientific and career development with state-of-the-art facilities and a highly international, collaborative, and interdisciplinary atmosphere
  • An outstanding research environment and access to the infrastructure of one of the world's leading research organizations
  • Working in the beautiful town of Potsdam and near by the exciting urban area of Berlin

The Max Planck Society is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion and strives to achieve gender equality at all levels. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from individuals with disabilities.

How to apply:

Please upload your application by 31st July 2026 here. Please DO NOT apply by email. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis.

Please include these documents into your application:

  • CV
  • Contact information of minimum 2 referees (no reference letters)
  • Motivation letter explaining why you want to join our group
  • A short description of current research projects

For further information please feel free to contact .