The Researcher (f/m/d) in Isotope Cosmochemistry position at the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) in Göttingen focused on presolar grains, isotope measurements, meteorites, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy and NanoSIMS. The official application deadline was 18 September 2026, so this vacancy is now closed.
MPS Isotope Cosmochemistry Researcher 2026 at a Glance
| Position | Researcher (f/m/d) in Isotope Cosmochemistry |
|---|---|
| Institution | Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) |
| Department | Planetary Science Department |
| Location | Göttingen, Germany |
| Job code | Planeten: Researcher isotope/Kleine 08/2026 |
| Number of positions | 1 |
| Initial duration | 3 years |
| Possible extension | Up to 2 additional years, subject to progress |
| Salary classification | EG 14 under TVöD Bund |
| Start date | 1 January 2027 |
| Application deadline | 18 September 2026 — passed |
| Current status | Closed |
Research Scope: Presolar Grains and Isotope Cosmochemistry
The vacancy targeted experienced cosmochemists working on primitive Solar System materials. The scientific emphasis was on presolar grains—microscopic mineral grains that predate the Solar System and preserve distinctive isotopic signatures from earlier stellar environments.
The role connected laboratory isotope measurements with broader questions in stellar nucleosynthesis, the composition of primitive meteorites and the early evolution of Solar System materials.
Core Research Tasks
The archived vacancy lists three principal responsibilities:
- preparation and characterization of presolar-grain separates from primitive carbonaceous and non-carbonaceous meteorites;
- isotope measurements on individual presolar grains and on grain populations; and
- publication of results in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at international conferences.
The position therefore required both advanced laboratory expertise and a strong record of scientific interpretation and communication.
Required Research Profile
| Doctoral qualification | Ph.D. with several years of postdoctoral experience in cosmochemistry |
|---|---|
| Presolar grains | Direct experience in presolar-grain research |
| Mass spectrometry | Required experience |
| Electron microscopy | Required experience |
| NanoSIMS | Independent user experience required |
| Publication record | Competitive publication record in cosmochemistry |
Employment Conditions
The position was classified at EG 14 under TVöD Bund, the German federal public-service pay framework. The vacancy stated a planned start date of 1 January 2027, an initial three-year appointment and the possibility of a two-year extension depending on research progress.
This was an employment-based research position rather than a scholarship or stipend programme.
Archived Application Package
The original application call requested a focused research application suitable for an experienced scientist. The CareerAidHub record and archived vacancy materials identify the following documents:
- cover letter;
- curriculum vitae;
- publication list;
- two-page summary of scientific achievements and future research plans;
- names and contact details of two scientific references; and
- relevant certificates.
Because the deadline has passed, CareerAidHub does not present the old application route as active. Researchers interested in related work should use the current MPS JobBoard for newly advertised positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MPS Isotope Cosmochemistry researcher position still open?
No. The application deadline was 18 September 2026, which has passed.
What was the main research focus?
The role focused on presolar grains, isotope measurements in meteorite material, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy and cosmochemical interpretation.
Was NanoSIMS experience required?
Yes. The vacancy specifically required applicants to be independent NanoSIMS users.
How long was the appointment?
The initial appointment was for three years, with a possible two-year extension depending on progress.
What salary grade applied?
The position was classified at EG 14 under TVöD Bund.
Where should candidates look for new MPS vacancies?
Researchers should use the current Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research JobBoard rather than attempting to use this expired call.
Official and Archived Sources
| Employer | Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research |
|---|---|
| Job code | Planeten: Researcher isotope/Kleine 08/2026 |
| Archived deadline | 18 September 2026 |
| Current status | Closed |
| Start date in call | 1 January 2027 |
| Initial duration | 3 years |
| Salary classification | EG 14 TVöD Bund |
| Last verified | 4 October 2026 |
