For more than 50 years, Max-Planck-Innovation GmbH has been successfully responsible for technology transfer for the Max Planck Society (MPG). As Germany's most successful basic research institution, the MPG conducts world-renowned cutting-edge research. Inventions emerging from this top-level research form the basis for innovative products and services realized through licensing or company spin-offs. In doing so, we fulfill an important and socially relevant mission: transferring the results of basic research into economically and socially beneficial projects and spin-offs.
To strengthen our startup team, we are looking for a Startup and Equity Manager (f/m/d) (full-time), ideally starting December 1, 2026,
to support scientists from the Max Planck Institutes (MPIs) in founding deep-tech companies and managing equity holdings in these spin-offs.
Your Challenges
Identifying and evaluating new startup projects, particularly deep-tech ventures, at the respective MPIs
Evaluating startup projects regarding their scientific and commercial viability
Advising and supporting founders in business model development and validation, as well as business and financial planning in preparation for a spin-off and within the Max!mize incubation program
Providing guidance on conducting market and competitor analyses
Supporting founder teams in validation activities (both internally and through external funding programs)
Identifying industry experts, co-founders, and management or team members for the startups
Facilitating investor contacts for founder teams and portfolio companies
Executing equity investments and financing agreements
Active portfolio management for existing shareholdings
Your Profile
As an ideal candidate (m/f/d), you meet the following requirements:
Successfully completed university degree (preferably with a doctorate) in physics, chemistry, or engineering, ideally complemented by an MBA or master’s degree in business administration with a very sound technical understanding and keen interest in deep-tech topics
Business-fluent English skills
Ideally at least 5 years of relevant professional experience, very preferably with your own entrepreneurial experience
Broad technical understanding and in-depth knowledge in the areas of company formation, business model development, corporate finance, and, where applicable, equity management
Team player qualities, willingness to travel, and strong communication skills, particularly when interacting with scientific staff as well as the administrative and leadership levels of the institutes supported
A very independent, strategic, and solution- and goal-oriented working style
High social competence, team spirit, confident demeanor, motivational talent, and assertiveness
Desirable: Experience and a professional network in the fields of project management, management consulting, incubators/accelerators, and venture capital
The position is initially limited to 2 years with the possibility of being converted to a permanent contract.
Remuneration is based on the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD Bund) depending on qualifications. You can also expect attractive employer benefits such as a company pension scheme, a discounted Jobticket, a centrally located office close to Munich Central Station, and the option to work partially from home.
Have we sparked your interest? Then we look forward to receiving your complete online application by October 20, 2026 at the latest to: personal@max-planck-innovation.de (Ms. Waltinger)
Max-Planck-Innovation GmbH / Arnulfstr. 58 / 80335 München / Tel.: +49 89 290919-0 / info@max-planck-innovation.de
Further information on how your personal data is handled and the public key for download can be found at this link:
https://www.max-planck-innovation.de/datenschutz-stellenausschreibung.html
