Senior Scientist Job in Social Anthropology, Germany

About the Position

The Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology is inviting applications for a Senior Scientist (m/f/d) as Max Planck Research Group Leader (W2, tenure track) within the Department Anthropology of Politics and Governance. Starting from April 2026, this professorial-level position offers academic independence, funding support, and the chance to establish an innovative research programme. The role focuses on transforming ecologies, environment, climate, and the anthropology of the body, while contributing to the wider themes of social change and governance. Supervised by Prof. Dr. Ursula Rao, the position encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, mentoring of junior scholars, and contribution to the International Max Planck Research School “Global Multiplicity”. Located in Halle (Saale), Germany, the role combines cutting-edge research opportunities with a supportive academic environment.

Position/Job Details

Position: Senior Scientist (m/f/d) – Max Planck Research Group Leader (W2, tenure track)
Institution: Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology
Department: Anthropology of Politics and Governance
Research Field: Social Anthropology
Location: Halle (Saale), Germany
Number of posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, tenure track
Start Date (Anticipated): 1 April 2026
Working Hours: 39 per week
Salary Range: W2 Federal Civil Service Remuneration Act
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Social Anthropology
Environment and Ecology
Climate and Sustainability
Anthropology of the Body
Governance, Politics, and Social Change

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Social or Cultural Anthropology
Strong publication record, including peer-reviewed journals and at least one ethnographic monograph
Experience in managing research projects and supervising students
Proficiency in written and spoken English

Preferred Qualifications:

Research expertise in environment, climate, ecology, or body anthropology
Successful record of securing external funding
Interdisciplinary research collaboration experience
Excellent leadership and mentoring skills

Key Responsibilities

Establish and lead a research group within the Department
Develop and implement an innovative research programme
Conduct empirical qualitative research and publish in top journals
Supervise doctoral and postdoctoral researchers
Collaborate across departments, disciplines, and institutions
Contribute to the International Max Planck Research School “Global Multiplicity”

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit applications electronically via the Max Planck Institute online portal.

Required Documents:

Cover letter
Curriculum vitae with full publication list
Project proposal (max. 5 pages, including one postdoctoral or two doctoral researchers)
Copies of academic degrees
Names of three referees