Student Assistant (m/f/d) – Scientific Community & Operations

The foundation Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung in Mülheim an der Ruhr is a renowned research institution that is over 100 years old and has already received two Nobel Prizes in its history. The institute is engaged in basic research in the field of catalysis with the aim of maximizing the efficient use of natural resources.

We are looking for a motivated student assistant who wants to help us build structures, take on responsibility, and become part of a growing science-focused startup. The responsibilities are intentionally broad. Depending on your interests and strengths, you can help shape various areas of the company.

Student Assistant (m/f/d) – Scientific Community & Operations

Part-time, 20 hours per week

About BrightSync:

BrightSync bridges the gap between science and industry. We connect companies with talented scientists from leading universities and research institutions in Germany—from doctoral candidates and postdocs to experienced experts. Companies approach us with specific challenges; we find the right experts, assemble research teams, and support the collaboration from the initial discussion through to a suitable solution. At the same time, we’re building a community of talented scientists and supporting their professional development through projects, training, and networking. We’re a young startup with a clear mission: to apply scientific excellence where it can create real economic and societal impact.

Your Responsibilities:

Research & Data Management

• Maintaining our database, conducting research and entering new information from public sources, including quality assurance and data structuring
• Reaching out to organizations and institutions to supplement missing information

Community Management

• Communicating with scientists in our network
• Assisting with profile and data maintenance
• Building and supporting our community
• Assisting with community activities and networking events

Startup Operations

• Assisting with organizational and administrative tasks
• Assisting with the development of internal processes and tools (e.g., Slack)

Communication & Content

• Creating LinkedIn posts
• Assisting with drafting and sending newsletters
• Writing website and community content
• Supporting communication and marketing activities

What you bring to the table:

Currently enrolled in a degree program in the natural sciences, engineering, or a related field; interest in science and research; strong communication skills and a passion for interacting with people; a structured and independent work style; interest in digital tools, software, and IT; and proficiency in German and English.

These are a plus, but not required

• Experience with community management
• Interest in science communication
• Experience with social media, LinkedIn, or newsletters
• Experience with data management or research
• Some experience with startups
• Knowledge of tools such as Slack, Notion, Airtable, or similar platforms

We offer you:

• The opportunity to actively help shape a young startup
• Direct collaboration with the founding team
• Insights into the intersection of science, innovation, and industry
• Flexible working hours and a high degree of flexibility
• The option to work remotely
• A high degree of personal responsibility and creative freedom

Important!

You don’t need to have all the listed skills. If you excel in specific areas, we’d still love to hear from you. Depending on your profile, tasks may be divided among several people.

Interested?

Please send your complete application materials, along with details of your interests and previous experience, by July 31, 2026, in a single PDF file via email to Ms. Kerstin Mann (bewerbung@kofo.mpg.de), Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, Kaiser-Wilhelm-Platz 1, 45470 Mülheim an der Ruhr.

We look forward to getting to know you and building BrightSync together.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Severely disabled applicants will be given priority if equally qualified. We ask for your understanding that submitted application documents will not be returned.