The GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel is offering an exciting Scientist (m/f/d) position within its renowned Marine Ecology division. This full-time role focuses on the productivity and genetic connectivity of Baltic brown algae meadows and is embedded in a large collaborative project addressing climate change, ecosystem resilience, and blue carbon potential in coastal systems.
In the German exclusive economic zone of the Baltic Sea, key brown macroalgae species like Fucus serratus and Saccharina latissima form dense underwater meadows. These meadows support coastal biodiversity, stabilize sediments, and act as significant carbon sinks. However, anthropogenic stressors like eutrophication and ocean warming threaten their survival. This position aims to research their adaptation capacity and genetic connectivity to guide marine restoration.
Key Scientific Responsibilities
The successful candidate will lead population genetic analyses and supervise benthocosm experiments:
- Population Genetics: Design and conduct surveys of Baltic brown algae, assessing genetic structure, diversity, and connectivity using WGS or RADseq genomic datasets.
- Mesocosm Experiments: Oversee experiments in GEOMAR’s Kiel Outdoor Benthocosms (KOBs) to quantify carbon fluxes under manipulated light and temperature regimes.
- Data Integration: Analyze large population genomic datasets using Bash, Python, and/or R, linking genomic variation to ecosystem functioning.
Position Details & Benefits
- Salary Scale: Up to E13 TVöD Bund (German public service scale, fully funded).
- Duration: 2-year fixed-term contract.
- Location: Kiel, Germany (on the Kiel Fjord).
- Benefits: Company pension, 30 vacation days, and support for work-life balance.
- Deadline: March 1, 2026.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must hold an MSc (PhD preferred) in evolutionary biology, marine biology, genetics, or a related discipline. Technical expertise in molecular lab techniques (nucleic acid isolation, WGS library preparation) and bioinformatics data analysis is essential. Experience working with marine macrophytes or biogeochemical cycles is highly advantageous.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online before March 1, 2026, through the GEOMAR recruitment portal: Apply via GEOMAR Portal.
For scientific inquiries, contact Dr. Daniel Liesner (dliesner@geomar.de). For administrative questions, refer to key project word “ProConAlg” and contact bewerbung@geomar.de.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this position fully funded?
Yes, this is a paid research position offering salary up to E13 TVöD Bund for a 2-year period.
2. What are Kiel Outdoor Benthocosms (KOBs)?
KOBs are large outdoor benthocosm systems that simulate near-natural coastal marine conditions while allowing controlled temperature and light manipulation.
3. Is a PhD required?
No, a master’s degree is the minimum requirement, though a PhD in marine biology or genetics is highly preferred.