Location

Essen

Application area

Faculty of Biology, Aquatic Ecosystem

Doctoral Researcher (f/m/x, No. 508-26)
TV-L 13 (gross 38.560 € - 54.807 €)

With more than 40,000 students, UDE is one of the largest universities in Germany and has established water research as one of its central research profiles, bundled in the Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU) and the Collaborative Research Centre 1439 RESIST on river ecosystems under multiple stressors. The Aquatic Ecosystem Research group (Prof. Dr. Florian Leese) is a dynamic, international molecular biodiversity group. We develop and apply environmental DNA (eDNA) methods – from DNA metabarcoding to metagenomics – for biodiversity monitoring, operate our own Genomics Core Facility and contribute to the European and international standardisation of these methods.

The position is part of the project TrendDNA 2.0, funded by the German Environment Agency (UBA) for four years. Using archived samples of the German Environmental Specimen Bank, the project analyses long-term trends of biodiversity in German rivers and soils and develops indicators and statistical tools for national environmental monitoring. The doctoral project covers two of the project’s five case studies: case study 4 builds an early-warning system for changes in rivers based on high-frequency eDNA sampling using an automated water sampler at a River Rhine monitoring station and from monthly suspended particulate matter samples; case study 5 identifies drivers of biodiversity change in a multi-stressor river environment by integrating eDNA data with chemical and regulatory monitoring data.

Start of employment

as soon as possible

Duration of employment

3 years

Working time

25 hours 53 Min. (65%)

Your main tasks

• You conduct research within the UBA-funded project TrendDNA 2.0 and prepare a cumulative doctoral thesis on river biodiversity change in a multi-stressor environment.
• You participate in the operation of automated eDNA water sampling at the River Rhine, which includes regular field trips and interaction with collaboration partner, e.g. at EAWAG, Switzerland.
• You generate DNA metabarcoding data from water samples and suspended particulate matter samples of the Environmental Specimen Bank in close cooperation with our Genomics Core Facility.
• You process the sequence data bioinformatically and analyse complex biodiversity time series statistically (e.g. seasonality, trend and change-point detection, early-warning indicators, forecasts) using R and/or Python.
• You link eDNA data with chemical data (e.g. elements, non-target screening) and monitoring data under the EU Water Framework Directive to identify the key drivers of biodiversity change.
• You publish your results in international peer-reviewed journals and present them at national and international conferences.
• You contribute to project reports and meetings with the German Environment Agency and help supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students in the project.
• As the position is partly funded from the University’s budget, you support teaching in the Faculty of Biology to a small extent (e.g. practical courses).

You will be given the opportunity to pursue further academic qualification (doctorate) as part of this role.

Your profile

• An above-average Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, ecology, environmental sciences, bioinformatics or a related field.
• Practical experience with molecular genetic methods is required; experience with DNA metabarcoding and/or metagenomics is highly desirable.
• Experience in bioinformatic and statistical data analysis (e.g. R, Python) is required.
• The motivation to carry out complex statistical time-series analyses of genetic data.
• High proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Willingness to travel for fieldwork, autosampler maintenance and conferences; a valid driving licence (category B) is required.
• Team spirit, reliability and the ability to work independently in an interdisciplinary, international team.

We offer you

• Stable overall conditions in the public service and a research-focused environment with an international scope.
• A meaningful research topic with direct relevance for national environmental monitoring, in close exchange with the German Environment Agency and national and international partners.
• An attractive work environment based on mutual appreciation and respect.
• The opportunity to pursue your doctorate as a member of the Water Graduate School (WGS) of the Centre for Water and Environmental Research, with numerous options to support your doctorate, e.g. interdisciplinary courses, workshops, summer schools and individual supervision (www.uni-due.de/zwu/the_water_graduate_school.php).
• A wide selection of further training and education opportunities.
• Various canteens and cafés run by the Studierendenwerk on our campuses.
• Attractive discounts through Corporate Benefits.
• A family-friendly university culture (e.g. care services for your children, advice on family care duties).
• A sought-after location and an infrastructure featuring very good accessibility by public transport and free parking.
• Flexible working hours and the opportunity to work partly from home, where compatible with laboratory and field work.
• 30 days annual leave with a 5-day work week plus additional days off on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
• Fair remuneration in accordance with collective agreements (TV-L), including an annual bonus and a supplementary pension scheme.
• Numerous sports and health services (e.g. university sport).

Application deadline

2026-11-11

Code number

508-26

Application

We look forward to receiving your digital application including the usual documents (motivation letter, CV, certificates and transcripts) in a single PDF file. Please specify the reference number and submit your application to Prof. Dr. Florian Leese, Universität Duisburg-Essen, Fakultät für Biologie, Aquatische Ökosystemforschung, 45141 Essen, phone +49 201 183-4053, email florian.leese@uni-due.de .

Information about the job

www.uni-due.de/aquatische_oekosystemforschung and www.trenddna.de

Open minded

We are a young, innovative university located in the heart of the Ruhr metropolis. We pride ourselves in outstanding research and teaching, think in terms of opportunities rather than limitations and develop ideas with a view to the future. Diversity is an integral part of our culture as we promote potential and are committed to upholding genuine equity in education.

Learn more

University of Duisburg-Essen pursues the goal of promoting the diversity of its members.
www.uni-due.de/diversity/en

In accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act, women with the same qualifications are given preferential consideration.

Applications from suitable disabled persons and persons of equal status within the meaning of § 2 para. 3 SGB IX are desired.

By applying for one of the advertised positions, you expressly agree to the requirements in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and to being contacted by mail. Further information on data protection can be found here.

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