View job here

The Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) in Berlin cordially invites applications for the position of a researcher in phytoplankton ecology. The position in the Department of Community and Ecosystem Ecology is available from June 15, 2023 and limited to 27 months.

The position is part of the multidisciplinary project "Event-related special investigation program on the environmental catastrophe in the Oder River of August 2022" funded by the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN). The project monitors and analyses algal and pollutant loads, documents the remaining populations of aquatic organism groups and their regeneration, and carries out studies to forecast or avoid further mass development of the toxic haptophyte Prymnesium parvum.

We seek a dynamic, motivated and ambitious scientist to independently work in the subproject studying preconditions of growth and toxin production of the P. parvum strain responsible for the disaster last autumn. Our aim is to better understand autecology and physiology of these strains and to enable well-informed forecasts of such harmful algal blooms. Of special relevance is the cooperation with subprojects studying genome, gene expression and toxicity of P. parvum. The work will be conducted in an international team, using well-equipped laboratories and the infrastructure of a leading institute.

Your tasks

  • Study of the ecophysiology of specific strains of P. parvum
  • Lab experiments to measure growth and toxin production at relevant combinations of environmental conditions
  • Analysis of factors triggering toxin production
  • Cooperation in the identification of toxin marker genes, in gene expression studies and in population modeling
  • Supervision of students
  • Data evaluation, publication and presentation of results in scientific journals and at conferences

Your profile

  • PhD in biology, preferential in plant physiology, microbiology or aquatic ecology
  • Experiences in the cultivation of microorganisms, in methods of plant physiology and molecular biology
  • advanced skills in statistical methods
  • strong publication record in leading scientific journals
  • good command in English (and preferably also in German)
  • ability to work independently and in a team environment

Our offer

We offer an exciting and versatile job in an international, dynamic scientific working environment with opportunities for flexible working hours and mobile working. Salary is paid according to the German salary scheme for the public service (TVöD Bund). It is a 100% position limited to 27 months.

We foster your career development by providing qualification and training opportunities. We actively support the reconciliation of work and family life. The 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 with the usual documents (cover letter, CV, certificates, 2 references) by 21 April, 2023. Please state the job reference number 28/2023 and apply exclusively via our recruitment platform at www.igb-berlin.de/en/jobs. Questions can be directed to Dr. Jan Köhler (jan.koehler@igb-berlin.de).

 

“Research for the future of our freshwaters” is the mission of the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB). The IGB is Germany’s largest and one of the leading international research centres for freshwaters. We seek to understand the fundamental processes governing freshwaters and their communities. Our research findings help to tackle global environmental changes and to develop measures for sustainable water management. The IGB is a diverse and inspiring place to work and conduct research. We promote individual development at every career level and stand for lively exchange and cooperation. 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 closely collaborates with numerous national and international universities and other partners in science and society. www.igb-berlin.de