Max Planck Law is pleased to announce the publication of an extensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section, which can be found on our Academic Opportunities page.
We hope the FAQ section will be of use to all who wish to find out more about who we are and what we offer prospective postgraduate researchers, especially those who are unfamiliar with the German academic system.
Two examples of popular questions are as follows:
Q: What financial support can I expect as a PhD or postdoc researcher at a Max Planck Institute?
A: We value research and believe that it should be generously funded. We offer PhD students and postdocs contracts that combine the guarantee of academic freedom with the security of a salaried position.
Currently, PhD students at our Institutes receive a three-year contract and a minimum salary of € 2,700 per month before tax. For postdocs, the initial contract is a fixed-term appointment for two years which can be extended twice, up to a maximum of six years. The annual salary before tax will be on a scale from € 52,700 to € 76,700 for a full-time position, depending on prior experience, and up to € 84,000 for research group leaders. Group leaders at our Institutes receive a 5-year contract with two possible extensions of up to 2 years each.
All positions also include an annual bonus, access to state benefits, and 30 days annual leave.
Q: Will I be eligible to live and work in Germany?
A: As an EU citizen, you already have the right to work in Germany. If you are joining us from outside the EU, with a job offer or visiting researcher contract you will qualify for a settlement permit for highly skilled workers or for an EU Blue Card.
If you move to Germany with your partner, they will be eligible for a working visa and for financial support with language courses. Additionally, any children will be eligible for financial support.