Doctoral researchers in the DFG Graduate Program “Biota-Mediated Effects on Carbon Cycling in Estuaries (RTG2530)– Effects of tidal dynamics and photosynthetic activity on greenhouse gas fluxes in estuarine ecosystems” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Earth System Sciences, Institute of Soil Science

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.04.2026, fixed until 31.03.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2025-11-30

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 65 % of standard work hours per week

The overall mission of the Research Training Group 2530 (RTG 2530) is to fill existing knowledge gaps on biota-mediated effects on estuarine C cycling under current conditions and with respect to global change scenarios. Embedded into the inspiring academic environment of the Universität of Hamburg, RTG 2530 provides Doctoral and Postdoctoral Researchers an outstanding platform for their career development. The RTG has been established by an interdisciplinary group of 17 Principal Researchers with scientific backgrounds ranging from terrestrial and marine ecology, via geoscience to microbiology and molecular animal biology. The RTG is funded by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, DFG). Currently, we have 14 open positions (TVL E13, 65%) for doctoral researchers (see www.biologie.uni-hamburg.de/en/forschung/grk2530/openpositions.html).

Your responsibilities

Active participation in a structured graduate program.

The doctoral researcher will be a member of RTG 2530 and the working group “Soils in the Climate System” of the Institute of Soil Science. The researcher will investigate the temporal dynamics of methane and nitrous oxide fluxes across the terrestrial–aquatic gradient in estuaries, with a focus on the role of photosynthesis and primary producers. The project will examine how tidal dynamics and photosynthetic activity shape the variability of methane and nitrous oxide fluxes and the greenhouse gas balance across diurnal, synoptic, seasonal, and interannual time scales. Field measurements will employ eddy covariance and chamber methods to generate high-resolution flux data, with a particular emphasis on the freshwater zone of the Elbe Estuary. These data will be used to validate, parameterise, and improve the estuarine marsh ecosystem model developed within RTG2530.

Your profile

A university degree in the field(s) of Geosciences, Geoecology, Biology, Meteorology, Environmental Sciences or comparable degree programs

The successful candidate should have knowledge and experience in micrometeorology and measurements of land–atmosphere exchange fluxes of energy and matter. She/he should have also good knowledge and experience in biogeochemistry, ecophysiology, and/or environmental sciences. Experience with greenhouse gas flux measurement methods, especially the eddy covariance and the closed chamber method, are beneficial. Experience with scientific field work, knowledge of statistical data analysis and scientific programming as well as experience in scientific writing are required. Good oral and written English skills are required. A valid driver’s license (Class B) is necessary. Pronounced team spirit, ability to work independently and strong motivation for scientific work are expected.

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

a structured and interdisciplinary program with colloquia and workshops
an inspiring university environment with international visiting scholars
funding for international research stays for members of the Research Training Group
excellent research infrastructure with administrative offices, shared workspaces and an attractive working environment
a wide range of support services during the doctoral phase and national and international continuing education and training opportunities
participation in cultural and scientific university events

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.