Yafang Cheng

Open PhD and Postdoc positions are available at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Mainz, Germany, in the area of AI-driven molecular modeling for atmospheric organic reactions and multiphase/interfacial chemistry . The project is co-supervised by Prof. Yafang Cheng (Director, Aerosol Chemistry Department) and Dr. Huan Yang (Research Team Leader, Nanoscale Theory and Modeling). Research topics include autonomous reaction discovery using quantum chemistry, machine learning, and automation to map oxidation pathways, as well as AI-augmented molecular simulations using machine-learning force fields and enhanced sampling to study aerosol nucleation, growth, and interfacial processes at the nanoscale. This opportunity sits at the intersection of chemistry , earth science , environmental science , physics , and computer science . Applicants without prior background in atmospheric or aerosol science are encouraged to apply, and strong candidates from physics, engineering, computational science, or related chemistry fields are particularly welcome. Funding and appointment terms: competitive compensation and benefits according to TVöD/MPG or a stipend. The PhD position is offered as an initial 3-year contract, extendable depending on progress. The postdoc position is offered as an initial 1-year contract, extendable up to 2–3 years by mutual agreement. To apply, email your CV, a short statement of interest, and contact details for at least two references to Dr. Huan Yang at [email protected] . PhD applicants must also include a bachelor’s transcript and class/department ranking. Use the subject line “Application – PhD/Postdoc – [Your Name]” and combine materials into a single PDF if possible. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled, starting September 2026.