The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Germany, invites applications for a Technical Assistant (f/m/d) position in Archaeogenetics. The role supports ancient DNA research through laboratory-based sample processing, molecular genetic experiments, and the analysis of archaeological materials within international research projects.
The position is based within the Department of Archaeogenetics, which investigates human history through genome-wide ancient DNA data from archaeological collections. The successful candidate will contribute to research involving human, animal, and plant remains by maintaining contamination-free laboratory procedures, managing sample documentation, and supporting molecular genetic workflows.
Furthermore, the Technical Assistant will coordinate sample processing for large-scale international projects involving hundreds or thousands of individuals. Responsibilities include preparing experiments in clean room facilities, supporting DNA extraction procedures, operating laboratory equipment, updating research databases, and maintaining accurate records throughout different project stages.
Through this role, the successful candidate will work alongside an international scientific team studying evolutionary relationships, population histories, and biological changes preserved within archaeological materials. The position requires technical laboratory expertise, careful handling of sensitive samples, and effective collaboration across interdisciplinary research projects.
Position Details
- Position: Technical Assistant (f/m/d)
- Institution: Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Germany
- Department: Department of Archaeogenetics
- Research Disciplines: Archaeogenetics, Ancient DNA Research, Molecular Genetics, Evolutionary Anthropology
- Location: Jena, Germany
- Contract Duration: Initially 2 years, with possibility of extension
- Working Hours: Full-time position
- Date posted: 9 July 2026
- Application deadline: 9 August 2026
- Salary/Funding: Funded according to the German TVöD pay scale with public service benefits
- Required Qualification: Vocational or university training as a biological or medical technical assistant, or comparable qualification
Research Areas:
The Technical Assistant in Archaeogenetics position focuses on the following research areas:
- Ancient DNA analysis
- Archaeogenetic research
- Molecular genetic laboratory techniques
- Archaeological human, animal, and plant remains
- Evolutionary anthropology
- Biological and archaeological sample processing
Eligibility/Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- Academic background in human anatomy, osteology, physical anthropology, or related archaeological disciplines, with knowledge of biological remains.
- Vocational or university training as a biological or medical technical assistant, or an equivalent qualification in a related field.
- Experience working under sterile, DNA-free laboratory conditions, with previous molecular genetics laboratory experience considered desirable.
- Familiarity with archaeological research methods, radiocarbon dating techniques, and taphonomic processes.
- Ability to handle and analyse archaeological materials, including bones, teeth, hair, mummified skin, palaeofaeces, and sediments.
- Strong organisational skills with attention to detail, reliability, and responsibility when managing research samples and laboratory workflows.
- Ability to work effectively within international research teams and communicate confidently in English.
- Excellent computer skills with experience managing large-scale databases and research documentation systems.
Key Responsibilities
The Technical Assistant will support archaeogenetics research activities through the following responsibilities:
- Coordinate sample processing activities for international archaeogenetics projects.
- Perform contamination-free sampling and processing of archaeological remains.
- Plan and conduct molecular genetic experiments in clean room facilities.
- Support DNA extraction and sequencing library preparation workflows.
- Maintain sample archives, laboratory documentation, and experiment records.
- Update the internal LIMS database with sample information and research results.
Application Process
Candidates interested in this Technical Assistant position should submit their application through the official Max Planck Institute application portal in German or English. Applications must include the following documents:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Copies of relevant certificates
- Letters of support or references
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 9 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 9 August 2026 (end of business day)
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: Not specified
Apply before the deadline to join an international archaeogenetics research team and contribute to cutting-edge ancient DNA studies at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.
Explore more fully funded research opportunities through our guide to Postdoctoral Fellowships in Germany, featuring academic funding options for international researchers across different disciplines.
Related Academic Opportunities
Explore more opportunities related to archaeogenetics, ancient DNA research, and scientific careers through these academic pathways:
- Ancient DNA Research Positions
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- European Research Opportunities
Institutional Overview
The Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, is a leading research institution dedicated to understanding human evolution through interdisciplinary scientific approaches. The institute brings together researchers from genetics, anthropology, archaeology, behavioural sciences, and related fields to investigate human history, biological diversity, and evolutionary processes. Its Department of Archaeogenetics applies advanced ancient DNA methods to study past human populations, animals, plants, and pathogens. By integrating genetic data with archaeological evidence, the institute provides important insights into population history, adaptation, and the development of human societies across different periods of time.
Discover more archaeology, ancient DNA, and research assistant opportunities on HigherJobz, featuring academic positions that connect laboratory science with archaeological research and investigation.
