Postdoctoral Scientist (m/f/d) – Genetics of Behavior

The Max-Planck-Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior – caesar (MPINB) focuses on basic research in neuroethology. International researchers at the institute study how the collective activity of vast numbers of neurons gives rise to the plethora of animal behaviors. The interdisciplinary research spans from imaging neural circuits at the nanoscale to analyzing neural activity in a freely moving and naturally behaving animal.

The Research Group “Genetics of Behavior” is conducting research on the evolution of behavioural diversity and the genetic, molecular and neuronal changes driving these events. To do this we concentrate on the evolution of predation and kin-recognition behaviors found in the roundworm species Pristionchus pacificus and compare this to the microbial feeding species Caenorhaditis elegans. To support our research we are looking for a

Postdoctoral Scientist (m/f/div)
Genetics of Behavior

The contract will be initially limited until 31.01.2026.

The projects

Several research projects are available covering areas including identifying the genetic and molecular mechanisms generating nematode predatory and kin-recognition behaviours and determining the influence of developmental plasticity on P. pacificus behavioural adaptations and neuronal connectivity.

What we expect from you

• A PhD in neuroscience, molecular biology, evolution and ecology, or related fields
• Interest in neurogenetics and investigating the influence of evolution on behavioural adaptations
• Prior experience with nematode genetics, molecular biology, and light microscopy would be beneficial
• Some knowledge of at least one programming language for data analysis would be advantageous
• Interest developing new methods and tools for emerging model systems

What we offer

• A cutting-edge research environment
• Pleasant working atmosphere and a multidisciplinary, international team
• Salary in line with the German public tariff (TVöD)
• Employee benefits (additional to 30 days of holiday two more days off at christmas eve and new year’s eve, subsidised job ticket), a family-friendly culture, and flexible working hours

MPINB is committed promoting equal opportunities and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation. We are aiming to increase the percentage of women in areas where they are under-represented. We therefore explicitly encourage women to apply. Handicapped persons with comparable qualifications receive preferential status.

Please apply exclusively online via the application tool and upload your CV and a letter of motivation – we look forward to getting to know you!

If you have got any further questions, please contact:
Dr. James Lightfoot: [email protected]

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