Max Planck Institute PhD Student Genetics of Behaviour 2026

The Max-Planck-Institute for Neurobiology of Behaviour – caesar (MPINB) is a neuroethology institute located in Bonn that studies how the collective activity of the vast numbers of interconnected neurons in the brain gives rise to the plethora of animal behaviours. Our research spans a large range of scales from the nano-scale imaging of brain circuitry, to large-scale functional imaging of brain circuitry during behaviour, to the quantification of natural animal behaviours.

The Research Group “Genetics of Behaviour” is researching the evolution of behavioural diversity and the genetic, molecular and neuronal changes driving these events. To do this, we concentrate on the evolution of predation and kin-recognition behaviours found in the roundworm species Pristionchus pacificus and compare this to the microbial feeding species Caenorhaditis elegans. To support our research, we are looking for a PhD Student (m/f/d) - Genetics of Behaviour.

The project

Max Planck Institute seek a highly motivated researcher to investigate the genetic, molecular, and neural circuit mechanisms underlying the evolution of novel behaviours. Using comparative approaches in the nematodes P. pacificus and C. elegans, you will investigate how their nervous systems evolved and diverged to support predation and kin recognition in P. pacificus. This project offers opportunities to employ cutting-edge techniques, including CRISPR genome editing, calcium imaging, optogenetics, and behavioural analysis, to uncover the mechanisms involved.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineNot Specified
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorMax Planck Institute
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• A cutting-edge research environment.
• A pleasant working atmosphere and a multidisciplinary, international team.
• Salary in line with the Max Planck regulations.
• subsidised job ticket, a family-friendly culture, and flexible working hours.

Requirements

• A master’s degree in molecular biology, evolution and ecology, neuroscience, or related fields.
• Strong interest in nematodes, neurogenetics, and investigating the influence of evolution on behavioural adaptations.
• Prior experience with nematode genetics, molecular biology, and light microscopy would be beneficial.
• Some knowledge of at least one programming language would be advantageous.
• Interest in developing new methods and tools for emerging model systems.

Application Documents

• Anschreiben / Cover letter
• Lebenslauf / curriculum vitae
• Arbeits- und Ausbildungszeugnisse / work and/or degree certificates
• weitere Qualifikationsnachweise / further proof of qualification
• falls zutreffend: Nachweis über Schwerbehinderung / if applicable, proof of severe disability

Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Konrad Adenauer Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline

How To Apply

If you have any further questions, please contact: Dr. James Lightfoot, [email protected]

For more information, kindly visit Max Planck Institute webpage.