Post-doctoral position (m/f/d) in ancient pathogen genomics
Max-Planck-Institut für evolutionäre Anthropologie
04103 Leipzig
Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-12-01
Overview
- Post-doctoral position in ancient pathogen genomics at the Archeogenetics department of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany.
- Start date as soon as possible; full-time, two-year renewable contract (E13 TVöD).
- Focus on reconstruction of ancient pathogen genomes from archaeological contexts and integration with large comparative datasets.
Tasks
- reconstruct ancient pathogen genomes from archaeological contexts
- detect ancient pathogen DNA in large metagenomic datasets
- perform genomic reconstruction via reference-based or de novo assembly
- conduct extensive comparative analyses with modern bacterial genomes
Requirements
- strong bioinformatics skills
- working knowledge of basic statistical methods
- experience with recombining organisms (preferred but not essential)
- PhD in microbiology, biology, bioinformatics, computer science, mathematics, population genetics or related field
- interest in human history
- ability to present orally; mentoring/supervision experience desirable
Benefits
- full-time two-year (renewable) contract
- pay scale E13 TVöD
- opportunity to work at a leading research institution with focus on ancient biomolecules
Conditions
- start date as soon as possible
- location: Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
- contract type: full-time, fixed-term two years (renewable)
- remote work not specified
Application
- CV and cover letter detailing qualifications and suitability
- information for three referees
- please submit in English as a single PDF file to the application portal
- deadline: 2026-12-01
Contact
- Dr. Kirsten Bos (kirsten_bos@eva.mpg.de)
- Further information available on the institute website
Additional information
- The Max Planck Society is committed to equal opportunity and encourages applicants with disabilities and more women to apply.