Summary
The Max Planck Institute for Chemistry (MPIC) invites applications for open PhD and Postdoc positions co-supervised by Prof. Yafang Cheng (Director at MPIC) and Dr. Huan Yang (Research Team Leader at MPIC). The project focuses on pioneering AI-powered molecular modeling tools to investigate how molecules form atmospheric aerosols—microscopic particles with profound impacts on global climate, air quality, and human health.
PhD / Postdoc Position: AI-Driven Molecular Modeling for Atmospheric Organic Reactions and Multiphase/Interfacial Chemistry
Designation
- PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher
- Postdoctoral Researcher
Overview at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Organization | Max Planck Institute for Chemistry (MPIC) / Max-Planck-Gesellschaft |
| Position Type | PhD Student / Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Focus | AI-Driven Molecular Modeling, Atmospheric & Interfacial Chemistry |
| Location | Mainz, Germany |
| Duration (PhD) | Initial 3-year contract (extendable depending on progress) |
| Duration (Postdoc) | Initial 1-year contract (extendable up to 2–3 years upon mutual agreement) |
| Compensation | According to the collective wage agreement (TVöD/MPG) or stipend |
| Application Mode | Direct Email Submission |
| Application Deadline | Rolling basis until filled (evaluations start September 2026) |
Research Area
- Atmospheric Chemistry & Aerosol Science
- Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning in Chemistry
- Quantum Chemistry & Autonomous Reaction Discovery
- Molecular Dynamics, Nanoscale Transport & Enhanced Sampling
Location
Max Planck Institute for Chemistry (MPIC)
Hahn-Meitner-Weg 1, 55128 Mainz, Germany
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Educational Background: Degree in Physics, Engineering, Computational Science, Chemistry, Atmospheric/Aerosol Science, or a related quantitative field.
- Core Competencies: Strong theoretical, analytical, and coding/computational skills.
- Domain Experience: Prior background in atmospheric or aerosol science is not strictly required; highly motivated candidates with strong computational and physical science foundations are warmly encouraged to apply.
- Diversity & Inclusion: The Max Planck Society actively promotes gender equality and welcomes applications from women and severely disabled individuals.
Job Description & Key Responsibilities
Selected candidates will investigate one of the following two research tracks:
- Autonomous Reaction Discovery:
- Integrate quantum chemistry, machine learning, and workflow automation to map complex oxidation pathways in atmospheric organic chemistry.
- AI-Augmented Molecular Simulations:
- Develop and deploy machine-learning force fields and enhanced sampling techniques to understand interfacial/multiphase processes governing aerosol nucleation, growth, and nanoscale interactions.
Key Benefits & Opportunities:
- Work in an international, collaborative environment equipped with top-tier computing resources and advanced laboratory infrastructure.
- Access high-impact scientific networks spanning climate modeling and atmospheric science.
- Opportunity to author high-impact publications in leading scientific journals.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send an application email to Dr. Huan Yang at:
📧 huan.yang@mpic.de
- Email Subject Line:
Application – PhD/Postdoc – [Your Name] - Format: Preferably combine application materials into a single PDF document.
Required Application Materials:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Bachelor’s Transcript + Class/Department Ranking (Required for PhD applicants only)
- Short Statement of Interest (~1 page covering motivation, scientific background, and key strengths)
- Contact Information for at least 2 References (Name, Affiliation, and Email Address)
- Optional: Code repositories, project demonstrations, or direct reference letters.
Last Date to Apply
- Review / Start Date: Evaluations begin September 2026.
- Deadline: Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis until all available positions are filled. Early application is strongly recommended.
