Post-doctoral position in ancient pathogen genomics
Max-Planck-Institut für evolutionäre Anthropologie
04103 Leipzig
Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-12-01
Overview
- The Department of Archaeogenetics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany utilizes advanced techniques in the study of ancient biomolecules to reconstruct the evolutionary histories of infectious diseases from biological repositories such as anthropological and archaeological collections.
- The Archeogenetics department invites applications for a Post-doctoral position in ancient pathogen genomics (E13) with a start date as soon as possible.
Tasks
- reconstruction of ancient pathogen genomes from archaeological contexts
- computational detection of ancient pathogen DNA in large metagenomic datasets
- genomic reconstruction via either reference-based or de novo assembly approaches
- extensive comparative analyses integrating data from large collections of modern bacterial genomes
Requirements
- Strong bioinformatics skills and a working knowledge of basic statistical methods
- Prior experience in working with recombining organisms is preferred but not essential
- PhD in a relevant discipline (microbiology, biology, bioinformatics, computer science, mathematics, population genetics, etc.)
- Competence in oral presentation is an asset
- Experience with supervising or mentoring students is desirable
Benefits
- full-time two-year (renewable) contract position at pay scale E13 TVöD
Befristung / Bedingungen
- start date as soon as possible
- location: Leipzig, Germany
- work arrangement not specified in posting
Bewerbung
- CV and cover letter detailing qualifications and suitability
- contact details for three referees
- application in English as a single PDF file to the application portal
- Applications accepted until 1 December 2026
Kontakt
- Dr. Kirsten Bos – eva.mpg.de
- Information about the position and further contact details can be found on the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology website: www.eva.mpg.de
Additional information
- Further information on the research agenda can be found at www.eva.mpg.de