The Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics is currently seeking a Coordinator (m/f/d, 50%, until 31 Oct 2023) for CaCTüS, a new internship programme, targeting students from currently underrepresented groups.

In an exciting venture, the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics has created a new internship programme, targeting students from currently underrepresented communities. The Institute investigates information processing in the brain for which it uses experimental, theoretical and computational methods to study perception, memory, decision-making, motor performance and more, and to develop appropriate recording and imaging techniques.

We now invite applications for a part-time position for a Coordinator of the Computation and Cognition Tübingen Summer Internship (CaCTüS internship) (m/f/d;). This position is limited until 31 October 2023 the first instance.

The internship aims to improve diversity, equity and inclusion in animal, human and machine intelligence research by offering paid research stays to students from currently underrepresented groups to work on projects suggested and supervised by early career researchers. By providing hands-on research experience, access to first-class research facilities and scientific networks at the start of the students’ careers, the initiative counteracts systemic disadvantages and empowers students to continue their academic career and to develop their full potential.

In your role as CaCTüS Coordinator you will be responsible for the implementation and the overall management of the internship:

• Contribute to the planning, organisation, implementation and maintenance of the programme’s activities, systems and processes
• Serve as the point of contact for potential candidates/enrolled interns and work in collaboration with project leads, PR and MPI/MPG administration
• Coordinate the acquisition of intern projects from early career researchers and student application process incl. shortlisting, interviews, selection
• Coordinate post-selection process: assist Welcome Office with Visa applications, travel arrangements and securing student housing; assist with induction and orientation
• Maintain website, applicants’ submission portal and oversee social media activities
• Coordinate the organisation of scientific and social events in the framework of the Initiative
• Monitor project expenses within allotted budget
• Identify and assess further potential external funding opportunities and coordinate funding application process
• Contribute to the strategic development and promotion of the initiative, its success and continuous expansion to other research institutions in Tübingen and potentially beyond

We seek an enthusiastic, proactive person who works independently and communicates effectively, pays attention to details and has strong organisational skills. Fluent, professional command of English and German, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Furthermore, we are looking for a person who is motivated to promote equal opportunities and who has already gained some experience in event management, project management and working in professional teams. Preferably, you hold a master’s or PhD degree in the life or social sciences or have already worked in a scientific or educational environment. Ideally, you have previous experience in change or diversity management.

In your role you will have a lot of opportunities to shape the future of the programme and you will work on expanding CaCTüS, which, depending on the success, may lead to a full-time position in the future. You will be supported in your role by experienced team members and support staff at the institute.

We offer an interesting, versatile position in a young and international work environment, a salary commensurate with your qualifications and responsibilities up to E 13 (TVöD Bund), various employee benefits, a family-friendly culture and opportunities for further training. The new roleholder should start in this part-time position ideally on 20 June 2022, latest by 1 September 2022; the post will initially be limited until 31 October 2023.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and aim to increase the percentage of women in areas where they are underrepresented. We therefore explicitly encourage women and candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. Persons with disabilities and comparable qualifications receive preferential status.

Applications should include a CV, a letter of motivation and the names and contact details of three referees. Please submit your application in English before May 1, 2022 through our application portal: https://jobs.tue.mpg.de/jobs/168

Virtual / in-person interviews will be held on 11 May 2022.

Please direct inquiries to Ms Susan Fischer, susan.fischer@tue.mpg.de