About the PhD Position
The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology invites applications for a fully funded PhD Researcher position in field-based human and ape locomotor biomechanics at the Department of Human Origins, located in Leipzig, Germany. This exciting doctoral opportunity focuses on great ape locomotion, human movement evolution, and ecomorphology, contributing to cutting-edge international research in biological anthropology and evolutionary biomechanics.
Furthermore, the successful candidate will join a new Minerva Fast Track Research Group led by Dr. Charlotte King. They will engage in independent and collaborative research using field-based data collection, experimental biomechanics, and advanced computational analysis. In addition, access to state-of-the-art equipment and international research networks ensures strong academic development and high-impact scientific outputs.
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in biological anthropology, zoology, biomechanics, ecology, evolution, biology, or related disciplines. Moreover, strong motivation, excellent academic performance, and experience in fieldwork or primate research are highly desirable. Preferred skills include computational data analysis, machine learning applications, and experience with biomechanical recording systems such as motion capture or force platforms.
This is a fully funded PhD position for three years starting September 2026, offering structured training, research freedom, and social security benefits under the TVöD Bund system. Additionally, candidates will be enrolled in the International Max Planck Research School “The Leipzig School of Human Origins,” gaining access to conferences, workshops, and interdisciplinary collaborations for global research careers.
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Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Human & Ape Locomotor Biomechanics
- Position type: Full-time doctoral research position
- Institution: Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Germany
- Department: Department of Human Origins
- Research Group: Minerva Fast Track Research Group (Dr. Charlotte King)
- Supervisor: Dr. Charlotte King
- Location: Leipzig
- Country: Germany
- Duration: 3 years (start September 2026)
- Start Date: September 2026
- Funding: TVöD Bund salary scheme (fully funded PhD with social security benefits)
- Employment Type: Full-time (39 hours per week)
- Number of Positions: Not specified
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree in relevant life sciences or related field
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Research Area
- Human locomotor evolution
- Great ape biomechanics
- Functional morphology
- Ecomorphology
- Field-based primate research
- Computational biomechanics
- Movement ecology
- Evolutionary anthropology
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in a relevant discipline
- Strong academic record
- Fluent English communication skills
- Motivation for PhD research in human origins
- Willingness to conduct fieldwork
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in primate or mammal field research
- Knowledge of biomechanical data collection
- Machine learning or computational analysis skills
- Experience with motion capture or force measurement systems
- Interest in functional morphology and evolutionary biology
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct field-based locomotor data collection on humans and apes
- Perform biomechanical and computational data analysis
- Contribute to evolutionary research on human origins
- Collaborate within interdisciplinary research teams
- Publish high-impact scientific research
- Participate in academic workshops and conferences
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online via the official Max Planck recruiting system.
Required Documents:
- Cover letter (max 2 pages)
- Curriculum vitae with two referees
- Academic certificates (B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees)
- Contact details for reference
- Research statement
- Sample of academic writing
Important Dates:
- Application open: Currently open
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
- Interviews: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Where to Apply
- University / Institute Website: Home – Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology
- Official Job Announcement: Positions available – Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology
- Application Portal: PhD position in field-based human and/or ape locomotor biomechanics – Registration
📧 Contact for Queries: origins_office@eva.mpg.de
This fellowship offers an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking fully funded doctoral research support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced training in evolutionary biomechanics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Germany.
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