Postdoctoral position in Molecular Plant Biology

The Wallner group at the Department of Comparative Development and Genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research (MPIPZ) in Cologne is seeking a Molecular Plant Biology Postdoc (m/f/d) to contribute to the investigation of tissue patterning, polarity and body axes formation during sporeling development of the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha. The candidate will interact closely with Dr. Eva-Sophie Wallner and members of her group and be involved in the design and execution of experiments, followed by statistical data analysis and publication. One major current project aims to answer how the first flat body structure – the prothallus – develops from a single-celled spore and how this structure establishes dorsoventrality de novo in response to light (see also Wallner and Dolan. Current Biology, 2024 (10.1016/j.cub.2024.07.099), Spencer et al. Development, 2024 (10.1242/dev.204349) and Wallner et al. Current Biology, 2026 (10.1016/j.cub.2025.11.016). The successful candidate will explore the regulatory network of dorsoventral tissue development by performing state-of-the-art genetic and biochemical approaches, such as proximity labelling and ChIP-seq/DAP-seq followed by CRISPR mutant analysis of identified candidates. Confocal microscopy and engagement with MorphoGraphX and associated image analysis methodologies used in the Department will be highly encouraged, as well as collaborating with the local facilities. Outstanding teamwork and communication skills, as well as a willingness and ability to work collaboratively towards common goals, are essential. This position would suit creative, highly motivated, proactive individuals who can interact productively in a team and who are interested in fundamental questions of organ development.

Your profile

The basic qualifications for the outlined position are:

• PhD degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, botany or related fields that was received no more than 2 years ago. Candidates in the final stages of their PhD are also encouraged to apply.
• Strong interest in developmental biology and pattern formation in response to internal (hormone) and external stimuli (light)
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tasks and/or a strong motivation to learn how to analyze big proteome or genome datasets
• Experience with confocal microscopy and image processing as well as former experience with bryophytes, is an advantage
• Excellent communication skills in English (spoken and written)
• Ability to work in a structured way and a strong commitment to reproducibility in research
• Ability to adapt and apply/improve methods of the latest state of the art
• High-quality publications and a track-record of presenting scientific work at conferences that substantiate the above-mentioned skills
• Interest in writing postdoc fellowship applications
• Ability to multitask and work harmoniously as part of a group and engage in collaboration in and beyond the institute

Our offer

The position will be initially for two years and is subject to the German regulations for the duration of scientific training.  Remuneration based on qualifications and experience in accordance with the TVöD Bund. Social benefits in line with those of the public sector.

Your application

Applications in English can be sent through the  online system by latest August 15th, 2026 as a single PDF file and should include a short letter of motivation explaining how the applicant’s profile and aspirations fit with the job requirements, a list of publications, and the names and contact details of two academic referees.

The first evaluation of applications will take place after the deadline. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.