Director (m/f/d) in Experimental Plasma Physics

The Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP), with sites in Garching and Greifswald, is a global leader in fusion research, dedicated to advancing magnetic confinement as a sustainable energy source. The Greifswald site hosts Wendelstein 7-X (short W7-X), the world’s largest superconducting stellarator and a flagship facility for optimized stellarator physics. W7-X enables stable, high-performance plasma operation—critical for advancing understanding in confinement, transport, stability, plasma-wall interactions, heating, control, and diagnostics.

The Director will co-lead the institute with fellow Directors and head an independent , internationally recognized research division focused on W7-X. You will develop and implement a visionary research program aligned with W7-X’s scientific goals and IPP’s strategic priorities. You will strengthen collaboration across IPP’s sites and with national and international partners and universities. Contributions to education and public outreach are encouraged. The position offers a permanent appointment as Director and Scientific Member of the MPG. You will lead a high-performing team in a world-class international environment, supported by in-house engineering, high-performance computing, and the services provided by the Max Planck Society. Substantial core funding, competitive compensation, and comprehensive relocation support are provided. Dual-career support, childcare, and language courses are available.

We seek candidates with an outstanding scientific record, at least 6 years of research experience after the PhD, and proven leadership in complex experimental plasma physics and fusion facilities . International recognition in experimental plasma physics and fusion science—with seminal contributions—is essential. In their application documents, candidates are encouraged to elaborate how they will contribute to the further development of W7-X and IPP as institution.

We invite outstanding scientists to apply for a tenured Director position in experimental plasma physics or plasma physics related fusion technologies at the Greifswald site. This is a leadership role within the Max Planck Society (MPG), offering full scientific autonomy, long-term funding, and the opportunity to shape the future of fusion research.

To ensure compliance with data protection regulations, applications should be submitted via our online system and include a cover letter, a resume, and a list of publications highlighting the five most important works .

Your contact at IPP for preliminary inquiries

Gregor Neu Head of Scientific Management

phone +49 89 3299 2236

We value a fair, diverse and inclusive work environment. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or their social, ethnical or religious background. We aim to increase the representation of women in areas where they are underrepresented and encourage them to apply. We also support the hiring of people with disabilities and invite them to apply.

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