Max Planck Research Groups (MPRG)

Funding source: Max Planck Society

Funding: own position, postdocs, PhD students, equipment, travel, consumables; typically between 1 and 1.5 Mio. Euro, depending on the research field and research topic.

Duration: 5 years (with possibility of an extension by two years twice in case of a positive evaluation)

Eligibility: Researchers holding a PhD and with a maximum of 7 years of experience since completion of PhD (exceptions are possible)

Deadlines: Annual call by the Max Planck Society, typically in September/October time frame

The Max Planck Society calls regularly for applications for open-topic Max Planck Research Groups (MPRGs). The call generally takes place once a year in the autumn. It is published on the careers section of the Max Planck Society website, as well as in international specialist publications and on employment websites specialized in scientific job opportunities. Detailed information for applicants will be available on the MPRG website of the Max Planck Society in due course.

This program is particularly suitable for excellent young applicants who have already held one or two post-doc positions and who would now like to head a group and work on own research ideas independently. Please note that Max Plank Research Group Leader (MPRG-L) positions are only open to applicants who hold a doctorate. The appointment of MPRG-Ls is subject to a rigorous selection procedure.

The open-topic MPRGs are not subject to any thematic restrictions. Applicants can indicate up to three Max Planck Institutes at which they would like to work.

MPRG-Ls receive a five-year W2 contract (salary is similar to that of junior and assistant professorships or associate professorships in the U.S.) which can be extended by two years twice in the event of positive evaluation. They are offered internationally competitive packages for personnel, start-up money, and yearly operating costs. Together with their Research Group, they use the infrastructure of the respective Institute and have their own budget for personnel and resources. The Group Leaders can use the approved budget at their own discretion. Even though they are granted scientific autonomy, they are expected to actively participate in Institute's life.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the preferred Max Planck Institute(s) before submitting the application. Both sides can hereby identify areas of mutual interest. Also, it can be determined whether an institute is generally interested in the planned research work and whether it can provide space and administrative resources.