Proteomics & Mass Spectrometry Scientist (m/f/d)

Organisation/Company: Academic Europe

Research Field: Chemistry » Biochemistry, Biological sciences » Other, Chemistry » Other

Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)

Positions: PhD Positions

Country: Germany

Application Deadline: 4 Apr 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin)

Type of Contract: Temporary

Job Status: Negotiable

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry (MPIB) in Martinsried is one of the world's leading research institutions in the fields of biochemistry, cell and structural biology, and biomedical research. With approximately 30 scientific departments and research groups and about 750 employees, the MPIB is one of the largest institutes of the Max Planck Society.

The Mass Spectrometry Core Facility is seeking a highly motivated and skilled

Proteomics & Mass Spectrometry Scientist (m/f/d)

(initial appointment period of two years with the possibility of extension)

The Mass Spectrometry Core Facility provides cutting-edge mass spectrometry services to support the diverse research needs of MPIB’s scientific community. Our facility specializes in a wide range of proteomics applications, including interaction proteomics, global protein quantification, and PTM‑omics. We also focus on mass spectrometry-based characterization of intact proteins and structural proteomics. To meet the evolving needs of our internal customers (m/f/d), we are continuously expanding our capabilities and have a close working relationship with the department of Prof. Mann ( https://www.biochem.mpg.de/mann ). We also develop and offer advanced techniques such as native MS for proteins and metabolomics analysis.

Job Description

As a Scientist in the Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, you will play a key role in driving innovative mass spectrometry-based research across multiple proteomics applications. Your primary responsibilities will include the development, implementation, and optimization of mass spectrometry workflows tailored to the needs of internal research groups at MPIB. You will work closely with researchers to provide them with cutting-edge support in areas such as proteomics, structural proteomics, intact protein analysis, or emerging techniques like native MS and metabolomics.

In this role, you will:

• Develop and implement new mass spectrometry-based methods, workflows, and techniques.
• Provide expert scientific support for complex proteomics projects, including interaction proteomics, protein quantification, and PTM analysis.
• Perform hands-on LC-MS sample preparation and analysis for customer projects on a daily basis, ensuring high-quality results in time.
• Analyze mass spectrometry data, providing meaningful interpretations and insights to support ongoing research of our customers.
• Engage with customers to discuss project requirements, progress, and results, ensuring their needs are met with precision and professionalism.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to mass spectrometry experiments and instrumentation.

Qualifications

• A PhD in a relevant scientific field (e.g., biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, or related disciplines).
• Proven experience in MS-based proteomics, including hands-on LC-MS sample preparation and data acquisition using Thermo Orbitrap and Bruker time-of-flight instrumentation.
• Expertise in mass spectrometry data analysis, particularly for proteomics, and proficiency in advanced data analysis tools with knowledge of programming/scripting skills are considered a distinct advantage.
• Experience with emerging techniques such as native MS, structural proteomics, or metabolomics is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a track record of troubleshooting complex experiments.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of engaging with customers and collaborating effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Passionate about advancing new technologies and workflows with creativity and enthusiasm.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken), with proficiency in German being an advantage.
• A motivated, open-minded team player, committed to working in a multidisciplinary and international environment and supporting multiple projects.

Employment conditions

• A permanent (prospective), crisis-proof position at the Martinsried site.
• An interesting and varied job at one of the largest institutes of the Max Planck Society.
• Flat hierarchies and an open-door culture.
• Thorough induction and training in handling hazardous substances.
• A wide range of further training and education opportunities (subject-specific and general, such as language courses, etc.).
• Remuneration according to TVöD (Bund) (German public service tariff scale), including a special payment and an annual individual performance-related bonus.
• 30 days of vacation for a five-day week, additional days off on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve (December 24 and December 31).
• Company pension (VBL), capital-forming benefits, and other standard social benefits of the public sector (federal).
• Flexible working hours (flexitime) and the reconciliation of work and family life through the institute's own childcare facilities and cooperation with a family service.
• In-house cafeteria/canteen.
• Active company health management and sports facilities (including a bouldering wall, tennis courts, company fitness through EGYM Wellpass).
• Subsidy for the job ticket.

To apply

Have we aroused your interest? Please submit your application documents (pdf files) via our online application website by April 4, 2025.

Please include a cover letter detailing your motivation and qualification, your CV with up to three references, and other relevant documents. Applications should be in English.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled people are expressly encouraged.

Please note: Unfortunately, applications by e-mail cannot be considered for data protection reasons. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Do not overlook the inclusion of Academic Europe in your application.