Research Assistant (m/f/d)

The Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt am Main is a growing research institution in the field of biological / medical basic research, focusing specifically on the functioning of neural circuits. The institute currently has around 220 employees and consists of three research departments, several junior research groups, and various service units.

The Brand Lab studies the neural and genetic mechanisms underlying behavioral evolution, focusing on the role of ecologically relevant aspects of the environment in shaping the diversification of social behaviors.

We are seeking a Research Assistant (m/f/d).

A fully funded research assistant position is available in the “Evolutionary Neuroscience and Behavior” research group led by Dr. Philipp Brand. The position is available from November 2026 and will initially be available for 1 year, with the possibility of extension.

Your responsibilities

• Fly stock maintenance, antibiotic treatment, microbial manipulation
• Provide technical/experimental support to our international team of scientists, including PCR/qPCR, standard cloning techniques, embryo injection, standard histological techniques, handling of and performing behavioral assays in flies

Your profile

We are searching for a highly motivated individual, passionate about science, who will support scientists in their experimental work. The ideal candidate will hold a degree as a Research Technician (MTA/BTA/CTA) or a BSc/MSc in a relevant field. The ideal candidate will work independently, managing fly stock maintenance and carrying out standard molecular and histological work and fly behavioral assays with demonstrated excellent experimental skills. The candidate will work closely with the rest of the international scientific team; therefore, good communication skills and a good working knowledge of English are required.

Requirements

• Knowledge in the fields of molecular biology and histology
• Previous experience with developing, planning, and conducting animal behavior experiments
• Previous experience PCR and qPCR techniques
• Previous experience working in insect neuroscience is advantageous
• Strong commitment to working in a team
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English

We offer

• Position with payment according to German TVöD (Collective Wage Agreement for Government Service Workers - Federal Government) with all benefits of the public service
• a highly interactive atmosphere and support within an international and cooperative team
• flexible working hours
• company pension scheme
• family services (baby and children's rooms at the institute, on-campus daycare center),
• health management (e.g., fitness courses)
• Cafeteria and bistro in the institute
• good public transport connections and a subsidy for the Germany Jobticket.

Compensation is based on qualifications and experience in accordance with the TVöD (Federal Government) and starts at pay grade 6. Benefits are in line with those of the public sector (Federal Government).

The Max Planck Society is committed to gender equality and diversity. We also strive to increase the number of people with disabilities in our workforce. Therefore, applicants of all backgrounds and identities are welcome.

The compatibility of work and family is an important concern for us; among other things, we offer the possibility of childcare in the neighboring Kairos daycare center. Further information can be found on our homepage.

We look forward to receiving your complete and detailed application documents in English, including a cover letter outlining your motivation and suitability for the position, along with a full CV, reference letters (if available), and relevant certificates by September 30th, 2026, using our application portal.