World-class institutions for non-university research
It is neither the largest nor the oldest scientific organisation in Germany, but it is probably the best known. The Max Planck Society is regarded as the centre for fundamental research into the natural, biological and social sciences and humanities outside the university world. Around 6,800 scientists at 84 Max Planck institutes and research centres can devote themselves entirely to their subject, without any obligation to give lectures. The Max Planck Society also has branches in the Netherlands, Italy and the USA. A registered non-profit, the organisation rubs shoulders in the Champions League with the world’s top research institutions. 31 winners of the Nobel prize were scientific members of the Max Planck Society or its predecessor, the Kaiser Wilhelm Society, at the time they won the prestigious award. It’s no surprise that natural scientists see the society as Germany’s most attractive employer.