Postdoctoral in Social Anthropology & Archaeology, Max Planck

About the Fellowship

The Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, Jena, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Social Anthropology & Archaeology.
The fellowship focuses on Biomarker Analysis and Urban-Environment Interactions (f/m/d). It is offered within the Department of Coevolution of Land Use and Urbanization.This 3-year, full-time position focuses on examining how urban settlement dynamics have shaped environments, driven pollutant accumulation, and transformed landscapes over time. Candidates will engage in cutting-edge interdisciplinary research combining geochemistry, palaeoenvironmental science, archaeology, and urban studies. The role offers opportunities to work with international collaborators, contribute to high-impact publications, and influence contemporary debates on urban resilience and sustainability. Starting January 2026, the fellowship provides a stimulating research environment, access to advanced laboratory facilities, and integration into the broader Human Sciences Section of the Max Planck Society.

Position Details

Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Institution: Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology
Department: Coevolution of Land Use and Urbanization
Research Field: Biomarker Analysis, Urban-Environment Interactions
Location: Jena, Germany
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (up to 3 years)
Start Date (Anticipated): January 2026 (flexible)
Working Hours: Full-time (39 hours/week)
Salary Range: TVöD up to paygroup 13 (based on qualifications)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Biomarker analysis of environmental change
Urban-environment interactions
Archaeology and historical urban studies
Palaeoenvironmental and geochemical archives

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Geochemistry, Palaeoenvironmental, Palaeoecological, or Environmental research
Strong experience in biomarker analysis and sedimentary archives
Proven publication record
Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with archaeological and historical datasets
Interest in interdisciplinary research and contemporary urban studies
Skills in public outreach and science communication

Key Responsibilities

Conduct biomarker analyses within urban-environment contexts
Integrate multidisciplinary datasets (archaeological, palaeoenvironmental, historical, geochemical)
Publish findings in leading journals
Collaborate with international partners
Contribute to departmental outputs and policy-relevant discussions