Director of the Institute for Animal Foods at the Max Rubner Institute | Leitung (w/m/d) für das Institut für Tierische Lebensmittel am Max Rubner-Institut

Max Rubner-Institut Karlsruhe, VW

Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, Deutschland
Published Feb 2, 2026
Full-time
Permanent

Job Summary

The Max Rubner Institute (MRI), a key research and advisory body for the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMLEH), is seeking a Director for its Institute for Animal Foods, based in Kiel. This is a crucial leadership role, responsible for the strategic and scientific development of the institute, which focuses on the safety and quality of animal-derived foods (meat, fish, milk, eggs) across the entire production chain. The Director will lead research, coordinate policy advice for the BMLEH, and actively participate in national and international bodies. Key responsibilities include securing third-party funding, managing a decentralized organization (Kiel and Kulmbach), and aligning research with societal challenges like resilient production systems and digital methods. The ideal candidate is a scientifically distinguished professional with a strong publication record, proven leadership experience, expertise in relevant fields (e.g., Food Chemistry, Veterinary Medicine), and excellent communication skills in both German and English.

Required Skills

Education

Completed university degree (Master or equivalent) and a doctorate (PhD) with at least a good grade in Food Chemistry, Food Technology, Agricultural Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, or a comparable field. Habilitation or comparable achievements in a relevant subject area are desirable.

Experience

  • Experience in acquiring and executing third-party funded projects
  • Experience in leading working groups
  • Extensive leadership experience and strong management competencies
  • Experience in scientific policy consulting (advantageous)

Languages

German (Fluent)English (Fluent)

Additional

  • Willingness to responsibly undertake administrative and management tasks associated with institute leadership. Must be able to obtain a ZAB credential evaluation for international degrees.