The Max Planck Society (MPG) and the Weizmann Institute of Science (WIS) have announced the 7th round of applications for the Max Planck-Weizmann Postdoctoral Programme. This prestigious four-year appointment offers outstanding researchers a unique opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research in both Germany and Israel, benefiting from the expertise of two world-renowned scientific institutions.
Program Overview
| Program Name | Max Planck-Weizmann Postdoctoral Programme |
| Host Institutions | Max Planck Society (Germany) and Weizmann Institute of Science (Israel) |
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Duration | 4 Years (2 years at MPG, 2 years at WIS) |
| Salary | TVöD Pay Grade 13 (€67,311 – €72,800 per year) |
| Application Deadline | December 21, 2026 |
Research Area
The program is open to talented researchers in the following fields:
- Life Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Human Sciences
Location
Selected candidates will divide their time between participating Max Planck Institutes in Germany and the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel. The recommended time distribution is two years at each institution, with a minimum requirement of one year at either site.
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must hold a PhD or doctorate degree obtained no more than 4 years prior to the application.
- Must identify and contact potential hosts at both a participating Max Planck Institute and the Weizmann Institute of Science.
- The proposed research project must be collaborative in nature, involving both host institutions.
Scholarship Description and Benefits
The programme provides a comprehensive support package to ensure researchers can focus entirely on their scientific projects:
- Employment Contract: A four-year appointment under German public sector guidelines (TVöD Level 13).
- Travel Funds: Up to €3,000 per year for conferences, workshops, and seminars.
- Full Benefits: Includes health, nursing, pension, and unemployment insurance, as well as relocation expenses.
- Housing Allowance: Eligible for a housing allowance during the stay at the Weizmann Institute in Israel.
- Resources: Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and a global network of leading scientists.
How to Apply
The application process is handled through a joint online system. Applicants should follow these steps:
- Identify Hosts: Contact researchers at both MPG and WIS to serve as joint hosts for your project.
- Prepare Documents:
- Detailed CV (academic background, publications, awards).
- Project outline (maximum two pages) explaining the collaborative nature of the research.
- A planned division of time between the two institutes.
- Letters of support from both the MPG and WIS guest scientists.
- Letters of Recommendation: Provide details for at least three referees (including your doctoral supervisor). The system will send them links to upload their letters directly.
- Submit Online: Complete the application via the official WIS application portal.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for the 7th round of applications is December 21, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to contact their potential hosts well in advance of this date to secure the necessary letters of support.
