• Application Deadline: August 31, 2025
• Start Date: October 1, 2025
• Location: Kiel, Germany

About GEOMAR

Located along the scenic Kiel Fjord, GEOMAR is jointly funded by the Federal Republic of Germany and the State of Schleswig-Holstein. The institute plays a key role in advancing global ocean research, focusing on:

• Climate change impacts on marine ecosystems
• Sustainable use of ocean resources
• Conservation of coastal biodiversity

Research Focus

The PhD position is part of the Experimental Ecology research unit, which studies how macroalgae, corals, and bivalves respond to climate-driven stressors like marine heat waves.

The project focuses on Fucus vesiculosus, a foundation macroalga in temperate coastal zones with limited dispersal and strong local adaptation—making it ideal for studying thermal resilience.

This role is embedded in FUBLUC, a multi-institutional project involving around 20 researchers, aiming to:

1. Evaluate the blue carbon potential of Fucus meadows in the Baltic Sea.
2. Develop restoration strategies for degraded algal habitats.
3. Explore the genomic basis of thermal tolerance in algae.

Your Role and Responsibilities

As a Doctoral Researcher, you will:

• Assess thermal tolerance in Fucus juveniles via mesocosm and lab experiments.
• Identify genomic loci linked to heat resilience.
• Conduct field trials in the southwestern Baltic Sea to monitor restored populations.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related fields
• Expertise in molecular lab techniques (nucleic acid extraction, sequencing, Hi-C, ATAC-seq)
• Strong bioinformatics skills for large sequencing datasets
• Proficiency in R for statistical analysis

Desirable Skills

• Experience in genome assembly and annotation
• Knowledge of evolutionary biology
• Background in algal or plant ecophysiology
• Nanopore sequencing expertise

Why Join GEOMAR?

• Work on high-impact climate change research with global relevance
• Access to unique outdoor mesocosm systems for large-scale experiments
• Flexible working arrangements for work-life balance
• 30 vacation days plus Christmas and New Year’s Eve off
• Competitive salary up to E13 TVöD-Bund with pension and benefits

Marine Heat Waves – The Bigger Picture

Marine heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense, threatening coastal habitats. This research will:

• Advance climate resilience strategies
• Enhance marine biodiversity
• Improve blue carbon storage
• Inform global restoration practices for vulnerable ecosystems

PhD in Algal Heat Adaptation – FAQs

1. What is the application deadline?
Applications close on August 31, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.

2. When does the position start?
The role begins on October 1, 2025.

3. Where will the research take place?
At the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, with fieldwork in the Baltic Sea.

4. What is the main focus of the project?
Investigating Fucus vesiculosus adaptation to thermal stress, identifying heat-tolerance genes, and restoring degraded habitats.

5. What is the salary range?
Up to E13 TVöD-Bund (75% part-time equivalent) for 3.5 years.

6. Do I need marine biology experience?
A background in biology, molecular biology, or genomics is required. Marine biology knowledge is an advantage but not mandatory.

7. Can I work remotely?
Some flexibility is possible, but lab and fieldwork require on-site presence in Kiel.

8. What career paths can this lead to?
Marine ecology, climate change research, environmental genomics, conservation biology, or academic/government research roles.

9. Is GEOMAR an equal opportunity employer?
Yes. GEOMAR encourages applications from women, underrepresented groups, and scientists with disabilities.

How to Apply

Submit your application via GEOMAR’s online portal by August 31, 2025: Apply Here

For further details, contact:
Prof. Dr. Frank Melzner
fmelzner@geomar.de

The Goldar Lab, located within the School of Biological Sciences at Illinois State University (ISU), is now accepting applications for fully funded PhD and MSc positions in Evolutionary Ecology starting in Spring, Summer, or Fall 2026.

About the Research Lab

Led by Dr. Xosé López Goldar, the lab focuses on evolutionary and ecological dynamics of plant-insect relationships, particularly in response to environmental stressors and chemical defenses. Using both controlled experiments and fieldwork, the lab integrates Plant Defense Theory and other classical ecological models to explore adaptation in changing ecosystems.

Core Research Themes:

• Plant Defense Mechanisms across organs and ecosystems
• Climate Stressors & Insect Interactions (mutualism vs. antagonism)
• Predictive Modeling of species performance under global change
• Chemical Signaling, Herbivory, and Pollination Ecology
• Eco-physiology and Biotic Stress Responses

Research activities span greenhouses, growth chambers, molecular labs, and natural field sites.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for highly motivated and collaborative students interested in Evolutionary Ecology, Chemical Ecology, or Climate Adaptation Biology.

Minimum Requirements:

• BSc (for MSc) or MSc (for PhD) in Biology or a related field
• Strong interest in plant-insect interactions, climate change, or evolutionary biology
• English proficiency (spoken and written)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Research experience with plants, insects, or chemical ecology
• Knowledge of population genetics or ecological statistics
• Academic writing or publication experience

Funding Package & Research Facilities

All admitted graduate students are fully funded through Teaching Assistantships or Research Assistantships, which include:

• Full Tuition Waiver
• Competitive Monthly Stipend
• Access to Research Facilities:
  • Greenhouses
  • Growth chambers
  • Molecular biology laboratories
  • Diverse field sites

ISU also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration with programs in conservation biology, neuroethology, and microbiology.

Life in Normal, Illinois

Illinois State University is located in Normal, Illinois—a city known for:

• Low cost of living
• High quality of life
• Excellent access to parks and outdoor recreation
• Easy travel to Chicago, St. Louis, and other major cities

Application Process

Interested candidates should apply by emailing Dr. Xosé López Goldar at xlopezg@ilstu.edu with a single PDF that includes:

1. A brief research statement (interests, experience, career goals)
2. Your CV or résumé
3. A writing sample (e.g., thesis, manuscript, or publication)
4. Contact information for up to 3 references

Final Thoughts

This is a rare opportunity for fully funded graduate study in the USA focused on evolutionary ecology, plant-insect interactions, and climate resilience. Whether you’re aiming for a career in academia, environmental research, or conservation policy, this program provides the ideal foundation.