2 PhD Positions

PhD Positions (E 13 TVöD, 75%)

The Lise Meitner Group Neuroplasticity in Development and Learning at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin invites applications for 2 PhD Positions (39 hours/week). The positions are limited to 3 years and available from October 1, 2026; later start dates are possible.

About the Research Group

The group explores how the human brain develops from the prenatal period through infancy, childhood, and into adulthood, and how experience shapes brain organization and function across the lifespan. Using state-of-the-art multimodal MRI techniques combined with behavioral research, the team investigates:

• Changes in white and gray matter organization, myelination, and brain function
• Neural mechanisms underlying cognitive development and learning
• Individual developmental trajectories and population-level variability through longitudinal datasets and large-scale, openly available data

Research focuses on the neural foundations of literacy acquisition, early brain development, and the interplay between brain structure and function in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Contribution to all steps of the research process:
  • Recruitment of participants
  • MRI and behavioral data acquisition
  • Data curation and analysis
  • Publication of results
• Participation in academic conferences
• Presentation of research findings
• Authoring scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals
• No formal teaching requirements

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Master’s degree (or expected by start date) in Psychology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, or a related discipline

Professional Experience & Skills

Essential:

• Experience in experimental research
• Strong interest in cognitive neuroscience, brain development, and/or learning
• Excellent analytical and programming skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Proficiency in spoken and written English

Desirable:

• Experience with programming languages such as Python or MATLAB
• Prior experience with MRI data acquisition or analysis
• Proficiency in spoken and written German
• Experience working with developmental populations (e.g., infants, children)

Working Conditions & Benefits

• Excellent research infrastructure, including support staff and equipment
• International research environment (English as working language)
• Collaborative and inclusive work culture with global partnerships
• Access to training programs via the Planck Academy of the MPG
• Flexible working hours
• Remote work option (up to 40%, depending on workflows)
• Annual bonus payment (according to TVöD) and 30 days of vacation
• Daycare partnerships and a parent-child room at the institute
• Barrier-free public transport access (U3 Breitenbachplatz) and Jobticket
• Institute canteen and biodiverse garden
• Health-related offers (fitness room, massage services, yoga classes)
• Support services:
  • International Office
  • Representatives for Employees with Disabilities
  • Gender Equality Office
  • Mental health support
• Diversity-sensitive environment (e.g., networking events, accessible facilities)

Diversity & Inclusion

The Max Planck Society promotes gender equality and diversity as core values. Applications are particularly welcome from individuals who are underrepresented in the workplace due to:

• Age
• Disability/chronic illness
• Ethnicity
• Gender identity
• Religion

The institute is committed to increasing the number of women in underrepresented areas and employing more people with disabilities. Individual accommodations are available to support diverse needs.

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