What is the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)? The MPI-FKF is part of the Max Planck Society, which is one of the top 10 leading research institutes in the world. The MPI-FKF has more than 400 employees - 40% of them being international staff - and the institute supports a wide breadth of research topics including Electronic Structure Theory, Quantum Materials and Nanochemistry.
But, perhaps the most important thing to know about MPI-FKF is that it sets you up for a research role in the future. Whether you're interested in studying for your PhD, seeking internship opportunities, or a senior professional - such as a researcher or professor - looking for new opportunities, here are five reasons why MPI-FKF is right for you.
REASON 1
You Gain Access to an Incredible Research Infrastructure
A key challenge inherent in becoming a top researcher is finding an institution that maintains the environment you need to carry out your work. The MPI-FKF solves that challenge by providing all the workshops, laboratories, and similar facilities - along with in-house engineers and technicians - to support researchers.
The MPI-FKF Crystal Growth workshop is an excellent example - it's already in place so you don't have to worry about creating a workshop or finding the people you need to staff it. In short, everything a researcher might need is already under one roof, which is a benefit rarely found at other institutes or universities.
With this substantial on-site support, available infrastructure, and almost limitless possibilities for research, the institute sets itself apart due to the vast possibilities for material exploration - both experimental and theoretical. You benefit from a creative research environment in which you can conduct fully in-depth analysis of novel materials.
REASON 2
The Stunning Library is a Research Wonderland
MPI-FKF together with its neighboring institute, MPI-IS, has an extensive research library packed with works from some of the leading names in chemistry, computing, numerics, magnetism, and quantum many-body theory as well as many other topics and several different scientific journals. Don't underestimate the importance of having this vast collection of literature available. When combined with the support offered by the institution's professors and your fellow researchers, they can lay the bedrock for your future projects.
The library hosts an extensive collection of PhD theses from prestigious alumni - ideal for those who wish to learn from past members and understand the intricacies of crafting a strong thesis.
REASON 3
MPI-FKF Provides Exceptional Support for all International Staff Members and PhD Students
All international employees can find guidance from the MPI-FKF's International Office. This office helps international researchers and students to register with the local citizen's office, apply for residence permits and child allowance - where applicable - and even gets them started with helpful German language courses, which are provided in-house.
The compatibility of research and family is of high importance to the MPI-FKF. In addition to the on-premises day-care center named "Forscherzwerge" for children aged from 6 months to 6 years old, the MPI-FKF actively supports all employees when researching kindergarten and school places.
For all PhD students, the MPI-FKF has a dedicated thesis advisory committee, which supports the students during their full PhD time. This committee is comprised of specially chosen scientists, who guide you in your work and help you with your career planning. Think of it as a personal support system dedicated to PhD students.
MPI-FKF is also committed to the education of young scientists. Most PhD students are part of programs like the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS-CMS), the Doctoral School on Molecular Nanoscience and Technology, or the Max Planck Graduate Center for Quantum Materials (MPGC-QM). These programs provide cutting-edge research opportunities and extensive training in nanoscale science, condensed matter physics, and related fields.
Convinced yet?
REASON 4
MPI-FKF Encourages a Healthy Work-Life Balance
As a researcher or PhD student, it can often feel like you're being swept up by the tide of work when you join a new environment. Within the MPI-FKF are several support networks that help you avoid this issue - like PhD Representatives, who organize a PhD get-together one per month and enhance the student experience beyond the lab to foster a sense of community.
Additionally, the Health Management working group of the MPI-FKF organizes several in-house sport classes as well as demand-oriented health courses, talks, seminars, workshops, and health days.
REASON 5
Stuttgart is a Beautiful City Offering a Cosmopolitan Lifestyle
Stuttgart is Germany's sixth largest city and a place of culture, diversity, and - perhaps most importantly - ample economic opportunity. It is a major economic driver of southwest Germany with active industrial, engineering and research sectors that are always welcoming new talents.
The city showcases its rich history and unusual geography by being packed with interesting museums and - for those who enjoy their wine - vineyards waiting to be explored. The high cultural diversity in Stuttgart makes it easy for expats and international researchers to feel like they are a part of the city's culture.
The MPI-FKF also provides a subsidized public transport ticket, making it easy to get around via Stuttgart's extensive public infrastructure while also providing access to other major German cities.
The nature lovers among you will be delighted to learn that Stuttgart is among Germany's greenest cities. It was named the country's most sustainable large-scale city in 2023, receiving the title from the German Award for Sustainable Cities. The MPI-FKF is located within the Stuttgart Forest, giving you the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities while still being able to reach the city center within 20 minutes. The walk from MPI-FKF to the University of Stuttgart is also possible through a nature habitat where one can enjoy the beauty of local flora and fauna.
Choose MPI-FKF for Solid State Research
Beyond being part of top-ten research institutions, the MPI-FKF offers you a chance to enjoy the cultural marvel of Stuttgart while engaging with some of the leading names in your field.
Did this spark your interest? Check out the MPI-FKF here or check the open PhD call below!