Postdoctoral Researcher; mfd in Applied Topology Biology

The successful candidate will conduct research in applied topology including topological data analysis, stochastic topology, network analysis, and computational topology techniques with a view towards open problems in the life sciences. The position is based in Daniela Egas Santander’s group on Algebraic Topology and Networks in Biology with the opportunity to collaborate closely with research groups across the MPI-CBG.

Beyond connecting with mathematics groups at MPI-CBG, especially the groups of Heather Harrington, Türkü Özlüm, Çelik Aida Maraj, and Carl Modes, the position also offers participation in a broader collaboration network connecting with the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in the Sciences in Leipzig, the Centre for Topological Data Analysis of the University of Oxford, and geometry and topology groups at TU Dresden.

• Drive independent and collaborative research in applied topology within the group’s thematic focus.
• Develop and refine methods to address new mathematical questions.
• Contribute to publications, proposals, and joint projects with internal and external partners.
• Present and discuss results at seminars and conferences and help organize events.
• Support and guide junior researchers and help foster a collegial research environment.
• Act as a source of information to other members of the group on methodologies or procedures.

• PhD (or near completion) in Mathematics or a closely related field.
• Strong expertise in algebraic topology and data analysis aligned with the research interests of MPI-CBG and CSBD.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and manage academic projects.
• Experience contributing to scientific publications or presentations.
• Capacity to develop new research ideas and contribute to grant applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, including presenting results and representing the research group externally.

• Experience in computer programming.
• Experience of computational mathematics or data analysis.
• Experience with interdisciplinary applications in biology.

• A full‑time position with a flexible start date in 2026.
• An initial 2‑year contract with the possibility of shorter or longer terms depending on project needs.
• A stimulating international research environment that encourages exploration of new scientific directions and cross‑disciplinary collaboration.
• Salary according to TVöD Bund (EG13) based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive public sector benefits including 30 days vacation, annual bonus, full social insurance coverage, and an attractive pension plan via VBL.
• No formal teaching duties with the option to contribute to our international graduate school.
• Travel support for research activities.
• Discounted job ticket (VVO) and good public transport connections.
• Support for a positive work‑life balance, including assistance with family and childcare.
• A broad network for career development and training through the Max Planck Society.

Please submit your complete application via our online system under the reference 2025-Postdoc-Applied Topology-2550 by 16 November 2025
.

Kindly include the following:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including publication list.
• A one‑page motivation letter detailing the research you wish to pursue and the MPI‑CBG research group(s) you intend to collaborate with.
• A two‑page statement of research interests and scientific achievements.
• Contact details of at least two referees as a single PDF file.

Scientific inquiries can be sent to Daniela Egas Santander. Questions regarding contract compensation or benefits may be addressed to Brian von Rueden.

Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics
Pfotenhauerstr. Dresden, Germany

• The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age, and other components of identity.
• The Max Planck Society specifically aims to increase the proportion of women in the areas in which they are underrepresented. We therefore explicitly invite women to apply.
• The Max Planck Society is further committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.
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