PhD position in the Section of Biological Oceanography (f/m/d)

The Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) has a temporary vacancy for a

PhD position (f/m/d)

in the Section of Biological Oceanography

for a period of three years and a percentage of 75% (30 h/week) starting on January 1^st.  Remuneration is paid in accordance with the Tarifvertrag für den öffentlichen Dienst der Länder (TV-L, Public Sector Collective Agreement on Länder) salary scale at level 13 (75%).

Who are we?

The IOW is an independent research institute of the Leibniz Association for which equal opportunities, family friendliness and work-life balance are very important. Our research focus is on the coastal and marginal seas, especially the Baltic Sea. The staff of the four sections Physical Oceanography and Instrumentation, Marine Chemistry, Biological Oceanography and Marine Geology works interdisciplinary within a joint research programme.

What will be your tasks?

The position is associated with the EU-Project ‘SEAQuester’ that aims at improving our understanding of the causes and consequences of the rapid pace of climate change in high latitude seas. New ecosystems emerge from retreating or thinning sea ice and altered physical and chemical conditions. These changes allow poleward movements of species distributions and changes in the timing of annually recurring events with hitherto unseen levels and patterns of productivity and with unknown potential for blue carbon sequestration. The PhD position aims at a better understanding of the consequences of changes in functional and taxonomic diversity of zooplankton on the biological carbon pump. The participation in expeditions and cruises to the western and eastern Greenland shelf areas lasting for several weeks is mandatory. The candidate is expected to conduct field surveys on the abundance and vertical distribution/migration of zooplankton and experimentally characterize physiological and metabolic rates of selected species (respiration, feeding, reproduction and faecal pellet production). Further tasks involve analyses of stable isotopes and fatty acid/pigment biomarkers to assess food sources. The work will be done in close cooperation with colleagues from national and international institutes. The candidate is expected to present the results from the studies in manuscripts and at international in conferences, and prepare a PhD thesis at the end.

What do we expect from you?

The successful candidate has a Master of Science (MSc.) degree in environmental sciences, marine biology or related discipline. We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with the ability to work independently, in a structured and responsible manner, and with excellent task and time management. The willingness to participate in ship- and land-based fieldwork (up to 4 weeks) in polar areas is required. Relevant experience in experimental and physiological work with zooplankton in the laboratory, in working with stable isotopes or lipid biomarkers as well as a basic knowledge of zooplankton taxonomy and ecology is advantageous. We expect very good English language and data processing skills and the ability to work in an international interdisciplinary team.

What does the IOW offer?

The IOW offers you a varied workplace in the immediate vicinity of the Baltic Sea (Work at sea) with flexible working arrangements, e.g. the possibility of working from home or remotely. A very good infrastructure with modern laboratory and office equipment, including on our own research vessel, form the framework for the best working conditions.

How do we promote equal opportunities ?

Our job offers are aimed at all people regardless of their gender. Research benefits from a diverse working environment, which is why we have signed the Diversity Charter.

IOW aims to specifically promote women in areas where they are underrepresented. For this purpose, the institute has given itself a plan to promote equality (plan for the equal opportunities committee at the IOW) and has repeatedly been awarded the Total E-Quality award for its commitment (website TOTAL E-QUALITY e. V.) Female applicants are given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability, as the position belongs to a working group in which women are underrepresented. You can find an overview of our measures for equal opportunities and for improving the compatibility of work and family on our website.

We give preference to applications from disabled persons with equal professional and personal suitability. Please mention the disability or equality in your letter of application and enclose a copy of the relevant certificate.

How to apply?

Please send us your application documents with cover letter, CV, copies of your certificates, description of relevant activities and experiences as well as references.

We look forward to receiving your application, quoting the

keyword: Bio 06/2024

by September 15th 2024

to: bewerbung.biologie@io-warnemuende.de

or

Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde

Human Resources Department

Seestraße 15

18119 Rostock

Germany

The interviews are expected to take place on October 15th 2024

Unfortunately, we cannot cover your application and travel costs.

For further information, please contact:

Jörg Dutz (joerg.dutz(at)io-warnemuende.de)