Doctoral researchers in the DFG Graduate Program “Biota-Mediated Effects on Carbon Cycling in Estuaries (RTG2530) – “Do aquatic and terrestrial detritivores prefer allochtonous or autochthonous C-sources? § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Biology, Institute of Marine Ecosystem and Fishery Science

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.04.2026, fixed till 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 University 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, the Institute of Marine Ecosystem and Fishery Science, and Animal Network Ecology. The candidate will experimentally investigate (A) the degree and magnitude to which terrestrial arthropods subsidise their diet with aquatic food sources, (B) the effects of aquatic diet subsidies on growth and nutritional condition of terrestrial grazers, (C) the degree and magnitude to which aquatic arthropods subsidise their diet with terrestrial food sources, (D) the effects of terrestrial diet subsidies on growth and nutritional condition of aquatic grazers, (E) to which degree aquatic and terrestrial arthropods are in feeding competition, and (F) if the mutual utilisation of these resources impacts C cycling.

Your profile

A university degree in the field(s) of i.e., biology, limnology, marine biology, ecology or environmental sciences

The successful candidate should have knowledge and experience in invertebrate ecology, biochemistry and experimental approaches. Experience in in stable isotope labeling approaches would be beneficial. Team spirit, experience with field and lab work, scientific writing and knowledge on biostatistics are required. Good oral and written English skills are necessary. A valid driver license (ClassB, light vehicle) would be beneficial.

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.