Open PhD and Postdoctoral positions are available at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry (MPIC) in Mainz, Germany. Supervised by Prof. Yafang Cheng and Dr. Huan Yang, the selected researchers will work at the cutting edge of computational science, artificial intelligence, and environmental chemistry to decipher how molecules form atmospheric aerosols.
Overview Table
| Opportunity Type | PhD Student / Postdoctoral Researcher |
|---|---|
| Institution | Max Planck Institute for Chemistry (MPIC) |
| Supervisors | Prof. Yafang Cheng & Dr. Huan Yang |
| Location | Mainz, Germany |
| Research Field | AI-Driven Molecular Modeling, Atmospheric & Interfacial Chemistry |
| Contract Duration | PhD: 3 years (extendable); Postdoc: 1 year (extendable up to 2–3 years) |
| Remuneration | TVöD/MPG collective agreement or stipend |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled (Evaluations on a rolling basis) |
Designation
PhD Candidate / Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area
The positions focus on developing AI-powered molecular modeling tools to address critical questions regarding atmospheric aerosols and their impacts on climate, air quality, and public health. Work will concentrate on one of two key directions:
- Autonomous reaction discovery: Integrating quantum chemistry, machine learning, and workflow automation to systematically chart oxidation pathways of atmospheric organic reactions.
- AI-augmented molecular simulations: Developing and implementing machine-learning force fields and enhanced sampling techniques to explore interfacial and multiphase mechanisms driving aerosol nucleation and growth at the nanoscale.
Location
Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Hahn-Meitner-Weg 1, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Academic Background: Degree (Bachelor’s/Master’s for PhD applicants; Ph.D. for Postdoc candidates) in Physics, Engineering, Computational Science, Chemistry, or closely related disciplines.
- Prior Experience: Previous background in atmospheric or aerosol science is not strictly required.
- Required Skills: Demonstrated motivation, high theoretical and analytical ability, and strong programming/coding proficiency.
- Diversity & Equal Opportunity: Applications from individuals with severe disabilities and women in computational and natural sciences are strongly encouraged.
Scholarship & Position Description
The project offers candidates the opportunity to pioneer a rapidly expanding frontier bridging high-performance computing, machine learning, and chemistry. Appointees benefit from:
- Competitive compensation and social benefits adhering to the German public sector collective agreement (TVöD/MPG) or a doctoral stipend.
- PhD positions are structured with an initial 3-year contract (extendable depending on progress), and Postdoctoral positions carry an initial 1-year contract (extendable up to 2–3 years upon mutual review).
- An international, interdisciplinary environment with access to premier computational and experimental resources.
- Close collaboration with leading global networks across atmospheric chemistry, climate science, and policy-oriented research.
- Direct support for career development, international conference travel, and high-impact publishing.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should email their application materials directly to Dr. Huan Yang at huan.yang@mpic.de.
Please combine your documents into a single PDF file (if possible) and use the email subject line: Application – PhD/Postdoc – [Your Name].
Include the following materials:
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Bachelor’s transcript including class/department ranking (mandatory for PhD applicants).
- A short statement of interest (~1 page detailing your motivation, background, and strengths).
- Contact details (name, affiliation, and email address) of at least two academic referees.
- Optional: Links to code repositories, project portfolios, or direct reference letters.
Last Date for Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.
Official Links
For more detailed information, please consult the official job posting via the Max Planck Society Announcement Page or apply via email to huan.yang@mpic.de.
