Scientific Project Manager (m/f/d)

The Max Planck Institute for Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG) in Dresden is an international research institute focusing on cell and developmental biology. Currently, approximately 500 employees from over 50 countries work in a highly collaborative and curiosity-driven environment, bringing together computer scientists, theoretical physicists, mathematicians, engineers, biologists, and medical researchers to conduct groundbreaking interdisciplinary research. The MPI-CBG is known for its flat organizational structure, collegiality, shared resources, equal opportunities, and family support. The institute has twice been voted “Best Place to Work” by The Scientist magazine.

We are seeking a
Scientific Project Manager (m/f/d)

Work closely with Prof. Dr. Meritxell Huch and her internationally recognized research group at the heart of organoid and stem cell biology, to coordinate high-profile research projects, connect with a global collaborator network, and ensure the smooth functions of a dynamic, interdisciplinary lab. This is a role for someone who can navigate both the scientific and administrative worlds — bringing together project management, science communication, and operational support.

Your Responsibilities

Project and Grant management:

Coordinate acquisition and management of collaborative national and international research projects of Prof. Meritxell Huch, funded by the European Commission, the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Aeronautics (BMFTR), the German Research Foundation (DFG) or other major funding bodies.
Guide the full life cycle of grant applications: from concept development to submission and post-award reporting.
Oversee personnel planning, monitor budgets, and manage legal and financial aspects for the Huch group in close collaboration with the MPI-CBG Grants, HR, Finance, and Legal teams.
Manage projects and integrate institute guidelines in the group processes.

Network management:

Organize and execute network activities and special events.
Build and maintain relationships with partner institutions, collaborators and funding authorities.

Communication:

In close collaboration with the MPI-CBG Communications Department, you are responsible for:

Dissemination of research results & public relations activities (e. g. press releases, social media management, outreach events)
Concept and content of the internal wiki page and external group website

Your Qualifications

PhD in life sciences or related field.
Proven experience in research or grant management, preferably with national and/or international projects.
Strong skills in science communication and stakeholder coordination.
Excellent English and German
Proficiency with MS Office, databases, and content management system
Proactive, well-organized, and comfortable working across diverse tasks in a fast-paced, international environment.

What We Offer

An initial 2-year contract, with a long-term perspective for the right candidate.
Salary and benefits according to qualifications and experience, based on the public-sector wage agreement (TVöD Bund) up to EG13.
A dynamic and supportive international research environment.
The opportunity to shape and support pioneering interdisciplinary research.
Structured onboarding, access to professional development opportunities, and a collaborative institutional culture.
Attractive pension plan via VBL (Government Employees' Retirement Fund)
Discounted job ticket (VVO) and good public transport connections
Support for a positive work-life balance, including family and childcare matters

Your Application

Please submit your complete application materials via our online application system stating
2025-Huch-ResearchManager-1110 at by 8 September 2025.

The following materials should be included:

Cover letter indicating motivation to apply for the position
CV
Academic and professional certificates
Contact details of 3 approachable professional references

For initial inquiries about the position, contact Dr. Lisa Johnsen by email or phone . Questions about the contract or compensation can be addressed to Brian von Rueden, Head of Human Resources, via

Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics
Pfotenhauerstr. 108, 01307 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.
The Max Planck Society supports the compatibility of family and career and is certified according to the "berufundfamilie" (“job and family”) audit.
When you submit a job application to MPI-CBG, you are transmitting personal data. Please refer to our privacy notice for information on how we collect and process personal data in accordance with Art. 13 of the Datenschutz-Grundverordnung. By submitting your application you confirm that you have taken note of the information in our privacy notice.

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