The Max Planck Institutes for Geoanthropology , Chemical Ecology , and Biogeochemistry , all located in Jena, are jointly establishing a new position for a dedicated and creative scientist specializing in science communication .

Scientist (m/f/d) for science communication in the field of environmental research

Your task

You develop innovative, target-group-oriented formats for science communication to bring findings from geoanthropology, chemical ecology and biogeochemistry, directly to society, particularly people working in agriculture and forestry and schools in Thuringia. The goal is to stress the importance of basic research to society and engage in dialogue with the local community.

Your tasks in detail:

• Developing and implementing new, dialogue-oriented communication formats, such as mobile exhibitions, hands-on activities in schools, forest days, and local information events.
• Building and maintaining robust networks with stakeholders from agriculture and forestry, educational institutions, local authorities, and civil society.
• Translating current research findings into accessible and locally relevant forms of communication.
• Planning and implementing events on site in Thuringia - not at the institutes
• Close cooperation with researchers from the three Max Planck Institutes and coordination of joint outreach projects

Your profile

• University degree in biology, chemistry, anthropology, forestry, or related subjects (doctorate preferred)
• Proven experience in science communication, ideally in ecological, climate, or transformation research
• Creativity in developing innovative communication formats
• Ability to prepare scientific content in an accessible and target-group-specific manner for ordinary citizens.
• Strong communication skills, ability to work in a team, and a proactive attitude
• Experience in networking and a desire to interact directly with the public
• Willingness to travel within Thuringia; a driver's license (class B) is an advantage
• German at least at a near-native level and English proficiency

We offer

• A responsible and varied role at the intersection of cutting-edge research and society
• The opportunity to play an active role in shaping the field of science communication
• Close links to three internationally renowned Max Planck Institutes
• Collaboration with interdisciplinary research teams
• A dynamic working environment with flat hierarchies and creative freedom
• Remuneration in accordance with TVöD (the German collective agreement for civil servants), depending on qualifications and experience

Place of work: Jena (with a main focus of activities in Thuringia)
Job Scope: Part-time (30-35 hours per week)
Contract Duration: Initially two years

Application deadline: October 5, 2025
Contact for inquiries: Dr. Karin Groten, kgroten@ice.mpg.de or Angela Overmeyer overmeyer@ice.mpg.de

Application

If we have sparked your interest, please submit your complete application documents (cover letter, résumé, relevant certificates, and work samples from communication projects, if applicable) as a single PDF via our application portal .