The Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) is inviting applications for a PhD position in Parasite and Virus Ecology within its Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology. This fixed-term doctoral position (36 months) focuses on understanding the ecological role of parasites and viruses in estuarine ecosystems, with a strong emphasis on microbial dynamics and carbon cycling.
This PhD project is embedded in the DFG-funded Research Training Group (RTG) 2530: “Biota-Mediated Effects of Carbon Cycling in Estuaries (BiCEst)”. The program is jointly hosted by IGB and the University of Hamburg, offering doctoral researchers a structured training environment, international networking opportunities, and excellent career development support.
Project Scope & Research Focus
In this PhD project, parasites and viruses are studied as key drivers of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in the Elbe Estuary. Using biochemical, molecular, and ecological approaches, the project investigates how microbial interactions influence carbon cycling under current and future climate conditions. The work combines field sampling, laboratory analysis, and computational methods to provide a holistic view of estuarine microbial ecology.
Key responsibilities include experimental design, data generation (using high-throughput sequencing and PCR), statistical modeling, publication of research in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and presentation of findings at international conferences.
Key Position Details
- Institution: Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Germany
- Location: Lake Stechlin, Germany
- Duration: 36 months
- Compensation: Salary based on TVöD Bund, E13 (65% scale)
- Target Start Date: April 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Job Reference Number: 28/2025
Qualifications & Requirements
Required:
- A Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, or a related natural science field.
- Solid knowledge of molecular biology, particularly DNA-based methods (PCR, sequencing).
- Experience with bioinformatics and statistical analysis tools.
- Ability to analyze complex ecological datasets and work effectively in teams.
- Excellent communication and writing skills in English.
Desirable:
- Programming skills and experience with network analysis.
- Prior experience in scientific writing and publication.
- A valid driver’s license (beneficial for field sampling trips).
What IGB Offers
- A fully funded PhD position for 3 years under German public service regulations.
- An international, interdisciplinary research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Flat hierarchies and active participation in scientific decisions.
- Individual freedom to develop creative scientific approaches.
- Structured training and qualification programs within RTG 2530.
- Strong institutional support for work-life balance and family compatibility.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application as a single PDF file via the official IGB online recruitment portal by January 31, 2026. Applications must include a cover letter explaining your research interests, a detailed CV, and contact information for 2-3 academic references.
To apply online, please visit the official job page: Official IGB Application Portal.
For scientific questions regarding the project, contact Prof. Dr. Hans-Peter Grossart at hanspeter.grossart@igb-berlin.de.