Are you a recent PhD graduate aiming to advance your research career in one of the world’s leading scientific organizations?
The Max Planck Society invites outstanding early-career researchers from around the world to apply for postdoctoral research opportunities across its 84 world-renowned institutes in Germany.

With two application routes—through the new Max Planck Postdoc Program or directly applying for advertised postdoctoral positions—the Society offers a launchpad for scientific excellence, leadership development, and international networking.

Max Planck Postdoc Program Overview

Host Country: Germany
Organization: Max Planck Society
Programs Available: Postdoctoral Research Fellowships
Scholarship/Position Coverage: Fixed-term employment or scholarships
Fields of Research: Natural sciences, life sciences, social sciences, arts, and humanities
Application Deadline:

Central Program Call: Open from April 1 to May 13, 2025
Ongoing Calls: Advertised positions open throughout the year

About Max Planck Society

The Max Planck Society (MPG) is one of the world’s most prestigious research institutions, hosting over 80 institutes across Germany and beyond. It offers exceptional research facilities, a vibrant scientific community, and structured career development for postdocs looking to lead in academia, industry, or society.

Through the Planck Academy, postdocs gain access to targeted training in leadership, project management, science communication, entrepreneurship, and career planning.

Postdoc Application Options at Max Planck Society

1. Centralized Max Planck Postdoc Program

Two major application rounds each year
Guaranteed contract durations for better career security
High-level mentoring and career support
Early career exploration into academia, industry, or entrepreneurship
Interdisciplinary networking and collaboration

2. Direct Applications to Max Planck Institutes

Positions posted year-round on the Max Planck Job Portal and respective institute websites
Initiative-based applications are encouraged
Flexibility to apply directly to your desired research group

Benefits for Max Planck Postdocs in Germany

Fixed-Term Employment: Contracts under TVöD (public sector pay scale)
Scholarship Option: In exceptional cases, scholarships for international postdocs
Health Insurance Support: 50% subsidy up to €100 monthly
Monthly Basic Scholarship: €2,500 + material expense allowances
Family Support: Supplement for accompanying spouses and childcare facilities
Career Development: Access to seminars, workshops, coaching, and mentoring via Planck Academy
International Networking: Engage with peers through PostdocNet and LeadNet
Special Support for Women Scientists: Programs like Sign-Up and Minerva-FemmeNet mentorship
German Language Courses: Offered to enhance integration

For More Details:

Click Here to See the Full Benefits of Postdoc Scholarship in Germany

Eligibility for Max Planck Postdoc Positions

Hold a completed PhD (doctorate obtained within the last 10 years)
Demonstrated scientific excellence and research independence
Open to international candidates (non-German primary residence before applying)
Field expertise aligning with Max Planck Institutes’ focus areas
Passion for innovation, leadership, and interdisciplinary research

How to Apply for Postdoc

Central Program: Apply through the Max Planck Postdoc Program Portal during open calls.

Click Here to Read the Postdoc Program Guidelines

The deadline is 13 May 2025.

Click Here to Apply Online for Max Planck Postdoc Program

Direct Applications: Search and apply directly to postdoc positions listed on the Max Planck Job Board or institute websites.

Click Here to Check the Open Positions and Apply

Why Choose Max Planck Society?

World-class Research Facilities
Strong Emphasis on Career Growth
Highly International and Inclusive Environment
Flexible Career Pathways: Academia, Industry, Entrepreneurship
Focused Support for Women and Underrepresented Groups
Scholarships, Grants, and Childcare Support
Platform for Long-Term Global Networking

Start Your Global Research Journey!

Whether your goal is a stellar academic career, leadership in industry, or launching your own startup, the Max Planck Society is the ideal springboard after your doctorate.

Apply now and take the next leap in your scientific journey!