Max Planck Partner Groups

The Max Planck Partner Groups scheme provides a five-year framework for outstanding early-career researchers to establish an independent research group and strengthen collaboration with Max Planck Institutes. Partner Group Leaders gain visibility, international networking opportunities and support to build up a research team. The scheme funds collaborative activities and small-scale research needs to enable sustained cooperation between the Partner Group Leader and a Max Planck Institute.

Annual grant of €20,000 for five years to support travel, workshops, PhD students, postdocs and small equipment; a five-year, high-visibility Partner Group status and networking/collaboration support with a Max Planck Institute.

Outstanding early-career researchers at the postdoctoral or junior faculty level who hold a doctoral degree obtained within the past 7 years (9 years for medical doctorates) and who have spent at least 6–12 months at a Max Planck Institute. Candidates not currently at a research institution in the prospective host country are expected to secure a position there within six months of approval.

Only Directors of Max Planck Institutes may nominate candidates; prospective candidates must contact a suitable MPI Director to secure a nomination.