Scientific Project Coordinator (m/f/d)

The Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI-BGC) in Jena is dedicated to interdisciplinary fundamental research in the field of Earth system sciences with a focus on climate and ecosystems. The internationally renowned institute, which currently employs around 250 people, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022. Jena is known for high-tech industry, internationally renowned research institutions and a modern university, but it also has a beautiful natural setting in the green Saale valley with steep limestone slopes. The city of Jena has an active student scene and a diverse cultural life. The Department of Biogeochemical Integration offers a project related position open for a Scientific Project Coordinator (m/f/d) to 80 % position, limited until 31.12.2027 with potential extension.

Background and position description

We search for a scientific project coordinator (m/f/d) for the Max-Planck-Caltech-Carnegie-Columbia Center for Earth science research (MC3 4 Earth). The MC³ 4 Earth Center is a collaboration of the Max Planck Institute of Biogeochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, California Institute of Technology, Carnegie Institution for Science (Department of Global Ecology) and Columbia University. It's coordination and Max-Planck research is funded by the Max Planck Foundation.

The center aims to transform Earth system analysis and predictions, integrating advanced Earth observations and machine learning for deeper understanding and sustainable management of our planet, in particular the land. Our mission is to set new standards in Earth system modelling, foster next-generation scientists, and lead in earth sciences research and education, shaping a sustainable future through innovative, interdisciplinary collaboration.

Your tasks

• Team coordination on a daily basis in close collaboration with the scientific coordinator
• Project monitoring (including budget)
• Event planning and organization (webinar/seminar, workshops, colloquia)
• Planning and organization of outreach activities (webpage maintenance, social media channels (Bluesky and LinkedIn))
• Preparation and coordination of regular reports to funding agency
• Support for the Department director with management tasks (preparation of meetings and administrative procedures)

Your profile

• Master and /or PhD in a related field, Science Management or Science Communication
• Proactive engagement in navigating and shaping the center
• Experience with content creation
• Experience in Science Management for preferably at least 1 year
• Affinity towards teamwork; nurturing, collaborative and responsible profile
• Very good communication skills (oral and written) in English

Our offer

This is a part-time TVöD position in a collaborative team in Earth system sciences. It is limited until December 2027, but with potential extension. Part-time work is generally possible. The position will be evaluated and graded following the collective agreement according to TVöD Bund; in addition, we will provide a pension plan based on the public service (VBL). The Max Planck Society (MPS) strives for gender equality and diversity. The MPS aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from all fields. The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged.

Your application

Any further inquiries about the position and/or expectations are very welcome and can be directed to Dr. Alexander Winkler (awinkler@bgc-jena.mpg.de). Are you interested? Please send us your application with cover letter, curriculum vitae as well a s names and contact information of two references summarised in a PDF file (max. 10 MB) by April 11, 2025, quoting the reference number 07/2025 by e-mail to bewerbung@bgc-jena.mpg.de or to the

Max-Planck-Institut für Biogeochemie
Personalbüro: Kennwort “Wissenschaftlicher Projektkoordinator”
Hans-Knöll-Straße 10
07745 Jena
Germany

We ask that you do not use application folders, but only submit copies, as your documents will be destroyed in accordance with data protection regulations after the application process has been completed. We look forward to receiving your application!