Postdoc (m/f/div)

MAX PLANCK INSTITUTEOF IMMUNOBIOLOGY AND EPIGENETICS

FREIBURG

Fundamental research in two key areas

of modern biology

Working time

full time

Limitation

1 year

Pay scale

max. E13

WE ARE LOOKING FOR A

Postdoc (m/f/div)

The Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics in Freiburg (Germany) has an opening for a postdoctoral position in the department of Dr. Nicola Iovino ).

The Developmental Epigenetics Department is dedicated to understanding the epigenetic events that contribute to the formation of functional gametes, the establishment of the zygotic epigenome upon fertilization, and the impact of environmental factors on epigenetics.

The position is to be filled as soon as possible and is limited for one year.

YOUR TASKS:
The successful candidate will have the excellent opportunity to lead the modelling phase of 3D genome compartmentalization during Drosophila embryogenesis, working closely with experimentalists to reproduce and explain key findings. In particular, main responsibilities include:

• Designing and running coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of chromatin and calibrate parameters against Hi-C data
• Developing and analysing mathematical models of chromatin organization to interpret simulation and experimental results
• Maintaining reproducible computational workflows, writing clear documentation, and contributing to manuscripts

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS:
We are looking for a motivated candidate with a collaborative mindset and solid communication skills, able to work effectively in a dynamic environment.

Applicants should have a PhD (or equivalent doctoral degree) in Physics.

Applicants should have experience in all of the following:

• Development of molecular dynamics simulations of polymers/chromatin with main MD engines (e.g., LAMMPS)
• Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis (Python, R, C++)
• Strong background in analytical and numerical modelling, with the ability to employ these tools to address biological questions
• Integration of data-driven models with genomic and imaging data
• Ability to work on high-performance computing resources, pipeline automation, and maintenance of clean, shareable code
• Very good scientific communication in English
• Good publication record

WE OFFER:
Located in a region that connects Germany, France and Switzerland, our institute offers an international research environment with outstanding infrastructure facilities and a positive working atmosphere that places a high value on work-life balance.

• Payment according to TVöD up to a maximum of E13 if the collectively agreed and personal requirements are fulfilled. The salary is regularly adjusted in line with collective tariff increases.
• Social benefits in line with public service (VBL)
• Additional performance-related remuneration component
• Professional training and development opportunities
• Good public transport connections and subsidy for job ticket
• Challenging work in a modern working environment
• Mobile working at a location of your choice within Germany is possible up to a maximum of 40% of the regular weekly working hours in justified cases.
• Catering provided by the institute\’s own cafeteria on site and shopping facilities within walking distance
• Dual-Career-Support and Welcome-Service
• Family-friendly offers (affiliated day care center at the institute, parent-child room, breastfeeding room)

Max Planck Institute for

Immunobiology and Epigenetics

HR Department

Stübeweg 51

79108 Freiburg

APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Have we sparked your interest? Please apply with your complete application documents (letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, certificates) via our

online applicantion portal

at

until 25th September 2025.

The Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics (MPI-IE) in Freiburg, Germany is an interdisciplinary research institution that conducts basic research in two key areas of modern biology: Immunobiology and Epigenetics. Central questions address the molecular basis of cell type identities, as they are regulated during immune cell differentiation, metabolic response and epigenetic chromatin adaptation.

We value and promote diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities, so we welcome applications from all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from severely disabled people. We would also like to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented and therefore expressly encourage women to apply.

Max Planck Institute for

Immunobiology and Epigenetics

HR Department

Stübeweg 51

79108 Freiburg