The Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI-BGC) in Jena is dedicated to interdisciplinary basic research in the field of earth system sciences with a focus on climate and ecosystems. The internationally renowned institute, which currently employs around 250 people, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022. Jena is known for its high-tech industry, internationally renowned research facilities and a modern university. However, it also has a beautiful natural backdrop in the green Saale valley with steep limestone slopes. The city of Jena has an active student scene and a diverse cultural life. We are looking for, starting May 1, 2026, a Research Coordinator (m/f/d) in full-time and permanent position.
Background and position description
The Research Coordinator supports scientific research at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry in a prominent position in close co-operation with the Administrative Director. He/she reports directly to the Managing Director and supports the other directors and independent W2 group leaders.
The MPI for Biogeochemistry is active in climate research. To this end, it operates high-precision laboratories for measuring trace substances as well as observation stations within and outside Europe. Scientific goals are numerical modelling of atmosphere-land ecosystems using modern static methods, high performance computing and artificial intelligence. The institute is supported by numerous national and international third-party funding organisations.
He/she manages the press and public relations work of our research institute and, in co-operation with the Research Coordinator of the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, the joint library. He/she will be supported by a team of currently 4 employees. We are looking for a committed individual who can set, pursue and achieve goals in a consistent and inclusive manner. The position will be filled as part of a succession plan; the current incumbent is expected to complete the induction programme.
Your tasks
- Head of Research Coordination at the MPI for Biogeochemistry including Head of Press and Public Relations
- Management of the joint library of the MPIs for Biogeochemistry and Chemical Ecology in co-operation with the Research Coordinator of the MPI for Chemical Ecology
- Science management, in particular supporting the Managing Director in the preparation of meetings of the Collegium, Institute Council, Advisory Board and Board of Trustees, drafting decisions and, in case of respective authorisation, monitoring their implementation in cooperation with the Head of Administration; keeping and documenting the minutes of meetings
- Coordination of research and third-party funding, in particular support for scientists in preparing research proposals and acquiring third-party funding
- Supporting the directors in the strategic development of the Scientific Service GroupsPress and public relations, in particular coordination of all PR and public relations activities of the Institute as well as the event programme; preparation of press releases; conception, structure, maintenance of Internet and Intranet pages
- Documentation, reporting, risk management, scientific awards, elections
Your profile
- Successfully completed scientific university education in a natural science subject and successfully completed doctorate and/or successfully completed further training in science management
- At least 3 years of professional experience in science management in non-university research institutions or scientific structural units of German universities (e.g. clusters of excellence, faculties) with a scientific profile combined with increasing responsibility
- Demonstrable knowledge and experience in applying for third-party funding and in the field of contract law combined with very good knowledge of national and international research funding institutions
- Demonstrable knowledge of, experience in or interest in the scientific disciplines represented at the MPI for Biogeochemistry
- Business fluent in German and English, both written and spoken
- Knowledge and experience in press and public relations as well as in librarianship are an advantage
- Strong ability to cooperate with superiors in a binding and loyal manner in the interests of the scientific institution
- Strong teamwork skills and intercultural competence as well as service orientation, initiative and a sense of responsibility
- High flexibility and resilience with very good time and priority management as well as a goal-oriented, binding, structured way of working
- Organisational talent, negotiation and mediation skills
Our offer
This is a permanent position. Part-time work is generally possible. If you fulfil the requirements of the collective agreement, you will be graded according to TVöD Bund, the position will be classified in pay grade 14; in addition, we provide a pension scheme based on the public sector (VBL).
The Max Planck Society endeavours to promote gender equality and diversity. It wants to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from all areas. The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.
Your application
The selection procedure is supported by the personnel consultancy Below Tippmann & Compagnie GmbH (BTC). We are delighted that you are interested in this position. Please send your complete application documents, quoting reference number 3001-115, by email only to: info@bt-personalberatung.de. The application deadline for this position is
October 5, 2025. For an initial confidential discussion, please contact Ms. Simone Pfister, BTC, on +49 (0)30- 2063279-14. We guarantee absolute confidentiality.
We look forward to receiving your application!
Data protection information: The data protection regulations for the processing of personal data can be viewed at BGC https://www.bgc-jena.mpg.de/datenschutz and at BTC https://www.bt-personalberatung.de/datenschutz.