The Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP) is one of the world's leading centers for fusion research. With around 1100 dedicated employees in Garching near Munich and Greifswald, we are committed to exploring the fundamental principles of fusion power plants. These power plants generate energy without climate-damaging emissions, are safe, sustainable and nearly limitless – just like the sun. Fusion power plants have the potential to play an important role in supplying energy to future generations.
At the IPP site in Greifswald, we are conducting research on the large-scale experiment Wendelstein 7-X. This fusion plant is the world's largest stellarator type.
Director (m/f/div) in Experimental Plasma Physics
Reference number: HGW/WL/DIR
Full time
Unlimited
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.
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.
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 on how they will contribute to the further development of W7-X and IPP as institutions.
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, ethical 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.
You can find information about the data protection and the handling of your personal data here: Privacy Statement .
Will we see you soon at the IPP?
We look forward to receiving your application by there is no application deadline.
Do you have any questions? I am pleased to be at your disposal.
Jan Geyer
HR | Recruiting & Employer Branding Specialist
Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics
Teilinstitut Greifswald
Wendelsteinstraße 1
17491 Greifswald