The Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin is an internationally oriented research institute. We want to understand how and why humans develop differently, which factors play a role in this, and how these factors influence each other. Driven by the conviction that we can shape our living conditions in such a way that all people can realize their personal potential throughout their lives, we study our behavior, our development, and our competencies in relation to our physical, social, and technological environment.
The Emmy Noether Group RAVEN at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin invites applications for an
Internship Position
(39 hours/week)
The position is for 3 months and is available from 01.02.2026.
The RAVEN group studies how changes in early foundational memory abilities and translate to children’s real-world memory capacities from age 4 to age 10. This internship will focus on a new behavioral paradigm that assesses how children and adults learn new information and preserve memories of specific instances.
Job Description
We are seeking a motivated intern with a strong interest in developmental psychology to support our project. The internship is suitable for Bachelor or Master students, as well as for non-students who wish to gain practical experience in developmental research.
The intern will be involved in several stages of the research process and will gain hands-on insights into experimental research with children and adults in an international research environment.
Tasks and Responsibilities
* Supporting (AI-based) image generation for experimental stimuli
* Recruitment and scheduling of participants
* Data collection, including virtual testing sessions with children (ages 4–10) and adults (ages 18–35)
* Participation in weekly scientific team meeting
* Opportunity to gain insights into other RAVEN research projects, depending on interest and availability
Requirements
* Strong interest in developmental psychology and behavioral research
* Native German speaker with very good English proficiency (data collection will be conducted in both German and English)
* Reliable working style and strong communication skills
* Ability to interact with participants (including children) in a professional and friendly manner
* Organizational skills
Additional assets (not required):
* First experience with research, data collection, or experimental studies
* Interest in digital tools, AI-based image generation, or stimulus creation
Our Offer
The Max Planck Institute for Human Development offers an excellent research infrastructure, including support staff and equipment. It provides an international research environment, with English as the working language. The research group fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment both within the group and in international collaborations. The following benefits are also available:
* Flexible working hours
* Option of some remote working
* Excellent public transport connections (U3 Breitenbachplatz, barrier-free)
* Institute canteen and biodiverse institute garden
* Extensive support services, e.g., International Office, representative for disabled employees, equal opportunities officer, mental health support
* Diversity-sensitive working environment (e.g., exchange formats, networking, barrier-free and gender-neutral toilets)
Diversity and severe disability
The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity, because diversity, equality, and inclusion enrich our community and promote scientific excellence. We have therefore set ourselves the goal of increasing the proportion of women in areas where they are underrepresented and employing more people with severe disabilities. With this in mind, we expressly welcome applications from people who are often underrepresented in the workplace due to characteristics such as gender identity, disability, religion, ethnicity, and age. Our website gives you an impression of how we understand and live diversity and what opportunities we offer to respond to your individual needs:
Your Application
Please send us your application via email to raven@mpib-berlin.mpg.de. The application should entail the following documents in a single PDF file: a cover letter describing your research interests, your CV, relevant certificates. Please submit your application without a photo. Applications must be submitted by 05.01.2026 to ensure consideration. However, review of applications will continue until the position is filled. If you have any questions about the position advertised, please contact Michelle Kowalski, kowalski@mpib-berlin.mpg.de .
The data protection declaration for the processing of personal data within the scope of your application can be found here: