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For Research Group “Physical Limnology”, Department of Ecohydrology and Biogeochemistry of IGB in Berlin-Friedrichshagen at Lake Müggelsee we are inviting applications for the position of research scientist (PostDoc) starting as of 15.05.2023.

The work will be performed within the DFG-project “PycnoTrap” with the subject on hydrodynamical drivers of carbon cycling in aquatic ecosystems. The successful candidate will be part of an international and interdisciplinary team with German lakes as primary research objects. The research will be focused on physical mechanisms driving the sinking and degradation of small organic particles in thermally stratified inland waters. The approaches encompass development and application of 3d particle imaging and Lagrangian modelling of particle sinking. The study will be done in close collaboration with the biogeochemical and microbiological teams of the project and allowing for intense knowledge exchange between different scientific disciplines and researchers. The workplace is in Berlin-Friedrichshagen with frequent visits of the IGB at Lake Stechlin (80 km north of Berlin), where the main field site is located. Lakes and reservoirs play a substantial role in the transport and transformation of both terrestrial and autochthonous organic carbon. The key internal pathway for aquatic carbon dynamics, i.e. sinking of particulate organic matter (POM), strongly depends on vertical density stratification of the water column. This project aims to shed light on the changing role of water column density gradients for sinking behaviour of POM and hence its impact on microbial carbon cycling in inland waters.

Your tasks

  • Development of image processing algorithms for particle characterization and determining particle trajectories and velocities based on existing preliminary developments in the IGB.
  • Development of model of particle fate in a turbulent stratified water column including sinking and microbial degradation.
  • Analysis and interpretation of observational data and modelling results in the general context of seasonal and climatic changes in the thermal stratification.
  • Preparation of manuscripts and publication of project results.

Your profile

  • A PhD degree or equivalent in physical limnology, physical oceanography, fluid mechanics or a related field of environmental sciences
  • Representative record of scientific publications
  • Knowledge in turbulent dynamics of natural waters
  • Ability to perform intense fieldwork
  • Experience in aquatic biogeochemistry and ecology is a benefit
  • High proficiency of oral and written English including scientific terminology
  • Collaborative teamwork and good communication skills are essential

Our offer

We offer an attractive position which combines modelling and field research on exciting natural objects in an international and dynamic scientific environment. We foster flat hierarchies and active participation. We allow maximum individual freedom, enabling everyone to develop and use their creativity to the best of their abilities.

Salary is paid according to the German salary scheme for the public sector (TVöD Bund) as a part-time 75% position at E13 if the personal requirements are met. The position is principally suited for job sharing. Funding for this position is available for one year in the first instance.

We foster your career development by providing qualification and training opportunities. We actively support the reconciliation of work and family lifeThe IGB is committed to diversity. We welcome every qualified application, regardless of sex and gender, origin, nationality, religion, belief, health and disabilities, age or sexual orientation. IGB is committed to increasing the number of women in this field, therefore applications from women are particularly welcome. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualification and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

Are you interested?

We look forward to receiving your application by 15.04.2023 with the usual documents (CV, certificates, references). Please state the job reference number 27/2023 and apply exclusively via our recruitment platform at www.igb-berlin.de/en/jobs.

Questions can be directed to Georgiy Kirillin by phone (+49 30 64181669) or by e-mail (georgiy.kirillin@igb-berlin.de).

"Research for the future of our freshwaters" is the mission of IGB – Germany’s largest and one of the leading international centres for freshwater research. In order to investigate different aspects of freshwater ecosystems, their biota and societal relevance, we unit a wide range of disciplines and understand research as a joint effort. With more than 350 employees and guests from all over the world, we conduct research at five locations in Berlin and at Lake Stechlin (Brandenburg). IGB is a member of the German Leibniz Association and the Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V. www.igb-berlin.de