The Max Planck Institute for Brain Research (MPI for Brain Research) in Frankfurt/Main is a leading research institution in the field of basic biological and medical research, with a focus on understanding the functions of the brain’s circuits. Our institute has approx. 220 employees in three research departments and several research groups, as well as service units.

The Brand Lab studies the neural and genetic mechanisms underlying behavioral evolution, focusing on the role of ecologically relevant aspects of the environment in shaping the diversification of social behaviors.

We are seeking a Research Assistant (m/f/d).

A fully funded research assistant position is available in the “Evolutionary Neuroscience and Behavior” research group led by Dr. Philipp Brand. The position is available from October 2025 and will initially be available for one year with the possibility of extension.

Your responsibilities

• General laboratory management, including servicing of equipment and ordering lab supplies
• Provide technical/experimental support to our international team of scientists, including standard cloning techniques, embryo injection, standard histological techniques, handling of and performing behavioral assays in flies

Your profile

We are searching for a highly motivated individual, passionate about science, who will coordinate the day-to-day management of the lab and support scientists in their experimental work. The ideal candidate will hold a degree as a Research Technician (MTA/BTA/CTA) or a BSc/MSc in a relevant field. The ideal candidate will work independently, carrying out standard molecular and histological work and fly behavioral assays with demonstrated excellent experimental skills. The candidate will work closely with the rest of the international scientific team, therefore good communication skills, and a good working knowledge of English is required.

Requirements

• Knowledge in the fields of molecular biology and histology
• Previous experience with developing, planning, and conducting animal behavior experiments
• Previous experience working in insect neuroscience is advantageous
• Strong commitment to working in a team
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English

We offer

• An initial, fixed-term contract of one year with regulated working hours
• Interesting, varied area of responsibility in a pleasant and friendly working atmosphere and an open-minded team
• Employment with all the benefits of the civil service (TVöD Bund)
• Further education and training in internal/external courses
• Corporate pension plan [VBL] 
• Family service [PME] 
• Inhouse baby and kids room, on-campus child day care center 
• Corporate Health Management (e.g. company doctor, sport courses)
• Inhouse Cafeteria and Bistro
• Good connection to public transportation
• Subsidy for the Germany job ticket
• Company agreements on working hours, induction days and mobile working

Remuneration is based on qualifications and experience in accordance with the TVöD (Bund). The social benefits correspond to those of the public service TVöD (Bund).

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. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

The compatibility of work and family is very important to us; we offer the possibility of childcare in the kindergarten Kairos close to our institute. For more information, please visit our website.

We look forward to receiving your complete and detailed application documents in English, including a cover letter outlining your motivation and suitability for the position, along with a full CV, reference letters (if available), and relevant certificates by July 31st, 2025 via our application portal.