Research Associate for the Project “SchuFi” Larval fish distribution and health in relation to nature conservation areas in the German North Sea § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

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

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.01.2027, fixed until 31.12.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-11-17

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 65 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities. They may also pursue doctoral studies outside of working duties.

The doctoral candidate will be a member of large and vibrant project group and be responsible for ichthyoplankton research in the North Sea. This research combines classical taxonomic approaches with molecular techniques (metabarcoding, gene expression). The aim is to describe spatio-temporal dynamics of larval fish assemblages as well as e.g. feeding ecology (by microscopy or metabarcoding of gut content), or the evaluation of health status of larval fish (by e.g. gene expression analysis). The position includes regular research cruises on the North Sea.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

A higher university degree (Master or equivalent) in a relevant field (marine biology or ecology, fisheries science or environmental sciences). The successful candidate should have knowledge and experience in larval fish ecology and taxonomy, zooplankton research molecular techniques, such as metabarcoding or gene expression analysis, and modelling. Experience in sea-going research is necessary. Team spirit, experience with scientific writing and knowledge on programming (R, Python) and biostatistics are required. Good oral and written English skills are necessary. A class B drivers license is 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

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.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements (background check and data protection information).