Job Offer from May 19, 2026
The Neural Mechanisms of Natural Behavior Research Group at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence in Germany has an opening for a pre- or postdoctoral researcher to join an HFSP-funded research project investigating the neural mechanisms of avian biosonar behavior. This multidisciplinary study focuses on neural processing of somatosensory and auditory information in freely flying birds. It aims at uncovering which sensory modality the birds use for sound reception during echolocation. Combining behavioral monitoring and cutting-edge wireless technology to capture extracellular neuronal activity and vocalization behavior simultaneously (see Hoffmann et al. (2019) Nat Commun 10(1):2577 for reference (DOI)), the project seeks to test the potential of facial feathers in oilbirds (Steatornis caripensis) to act as high-frequency sound sensors.
The successful candidate will join a young and collaborative, international team dedicated to advancing our understanding of the neural basis of animal behavior under natural, social conditions. The position will be based in Seewiesen (Southern Bavaria, Germany), but extended periods of field research in Colombia are a major part of the project.
We seek a highly motivated researcher (f/m/d) who shares our fascination for birds and our passion for neuroscience, and who shows a strong interest in behavioral ecology and field research.
Your profile
For the PhD position, we are looking for candidates who
- hold a MSc degree in Biology, Neuroscience, Psychology, Cognition, Ecology, Evolution or an equivalent area
- show genuine interest in neuroscience AND behavioral ecology
For the Postdoc position, we are looking for candidates who
- hold a PhD in neuroscience or in a closely related field
- bring well-documented expertise in in-vivo electrophysiology
- can demonstrate a strong publication track record
In addition, the successful candidate
- must be willing to travel internationally for extended time periods and to work in field-based settings
- brings expertise in at least one of the following areas: neurophysiology, bioacoustics, monitoring of animal behavior, neuroanatomy, programming, and electrical engineering
- shows strong communication and problem-solving skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in an international team
Our offer
- full-time position, fully-funded for 3 years (starting at 1st December 2026 or later), in a stimulating and supportive
- international research environment, attractive remuneration based on the collective agreement for the public service of the federal states of Germany
- (E13 TVöD, 65% for PhD & 100% for Postdoc) with full coverage of health and social insurances
- excellent training in academic, technical and career development skills
- possibility to participate in international conferences
- access to state-of-the-art tools and exceptional research infrastructure at a widely renowned biological research institution
How to apply
Motivated candidates are asked to send via email a single PDF file containing: a one-page motivation letter, a CV including a list of publications, a one-page report on past research experience, and contact information of at least 2 referees to Dr. Susanne Hoffmann (susanne.hoffmann@bi.mpg.de).
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence
Am Klopferspitz 18 | 82152 Planegg, Martinsried
Eberhard-Gwinner-Strasse | 82319 Starnberg - Seewiesen