Postdoctoral Position in Social Science Genomics | Max Planck Research Group Biosocial
The Max Planck Research Group Biosocial at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin seeks applicants for 1 Postdoctoral Position in Social Science Genomics (E 13 TVöD 100%)
The Position
The Max Planck Research Group "Biosocial – Biology, Social Disparities, and Development," led by principal investigator Dr. Laurel Raffington, adopts an interdisciplinary approach toexplore the interaction between social inequality and genetics in human development. This postdoctoral position focuses on studying gene-environment interplay using polygenic indices within German population cohorts. Additionally, the postdoctoral scientist will lead experimental online survey studies to investigate public perceptions of DNA biomarker applications.
Our Offer
The postdoctoral position is available from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, with the possibility of a later start date. The Max Planck Institute for Human Development provides an excellent research infrastructure, including support staff and equipment. It offers an international and interdisciplinary research environment where English is the working language. The research group promotes a collaborative and inclusive work culture, accommodating caregiving responsibilities and offering flexible work hours, such as home office days.
Your Profile
Applicants should have a strong interest to work with:
- polygenic indices in association with environmental contexts and developmental processes and
- online survey methodology.
Applicants should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in sociogenomics, psychology, economics, or similar. Experience in the following areas is an advantage, but we do not expect you to meet them all:
- Online survey studies
- Human genomics, particularly polygenic indices
- Data analysis
- Experience working with multiple cohort studies
Your Application
The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilies in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such individuals.
Applicants should submit 1) a cover letter describing research interests and their alignment to our group’s goals, research experience (including data analytic skills), 2) curriculum vitae without a photo, including 2 referees we may contact, 3) school and University transcripts, and 4) a writing sample (e.g., first-author publication, abstract of PhD thesis or ideas for future research). We kindly ask you to submit your application as a single-file pdf to sekraffington@mpib-berlin.mpg.de. Applications are due November 30, 2025.
Link: https://www.mpib-berlin.mpg.de/2196134/2025-10-27-biosoial-postdoc?c=219557