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.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This PhD project is embedded in the DFG-funded Research Training Group (RTG) 2530:
“Biota-Mediated Effects of Carbon Cycling in Estuaries (BiCEst)”.
RTG 2530 brings together an interdisciplinary team of 15 principal investigators from fields including:
- Terrestrial and marine ecology
- Geosciences
- Microbiology
- Molecular plant and animal biology
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.
PhD Research Focus: Parasites and Viruses in Estuarine Ecosystems
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 and Research Tasks
As a PhD researcher, you will be actively involved in experimental design, data generation, and scientific dissemination.
Main Tasks
- Laboratory analysis of planktonic and benthic microorganisms
- Application of shotgun metagenomics
- Field sampling along the salinity gradient of the Elbe Estuary
- Bioinformatic and statistical data analysis
- Linking environmental variables to microbial and viral dynamics
- Conducting mesocosm and microcosm experiments
- Contributing to IGB’s scientific publications and research activities
Candidate Profile and Qualifications
This position is well suited for early-career researchers with a strong interest in microbial ecology and molecular methods.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, or a related field
- Solid knowledge of molecular biology, particularly DNA-based methods
- Experience with bioinformatics and statistical analysis tools
- Ability to analyze complex ecological datasets
- Strong teamwork skills and excellent English communication abilities
Additional Assets
- Programming and network analysis experience
- Prior experience in scientific writing and publication
- Valid driver’s license (useful for fieldwork)
Employment Conditions and Benefits
What IGB Offers
- Fully funded PhD position for 36 months
- Salary according to TVöD Bund, E13 (65%)
- International, interdisciplinary research environment
- Flat hierarchies and active participation in research decisions
- Individual freedom to develop creative scientific approaches
- Structured training and qualification programs
- Strong support for work-life balance and family compatibility
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their application as a single PDF file via the online recruitment platform.
Application Documents
- Motivation letter (explaining interest in the PhD and project fit)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact information for 2–3 academic references
Application deadline: 31 January 2026
(Or until a sufficient number of suitable candidates is identified)
Please quote Job Reference Number: 28/2025. Contact for Scientific Questions Prof. Dr. Hans-Peter Grossart, Email: hanspeter.grossart@igb-berlin.de