Technical Assistant | Technische Assistenz (w/m/d)

Johann Heinrich von Thünen -Bundesforschungsinstitut für ländl.Räume, Wald u. Fischerei

Waldsieversdorf, Brandenburg, Deutschland
Published Oct 3, 2025
Full-time
Fixed-term

Job Summary

This fixed-term Technical Assistant role at the Institute for Forest Genetics in Waldsieversdorf supports the critical FraxForFuture 2.0 project, focused on preserving ash trees threatened by fungal pathogens. The position requires extensive laboratory expertise, primarily involving molecular genetic work such as DNA extraction from plant materials (leaves, cambium), PCR, microsatellite analysis, and sequencing. A key responsibility is conducting plant tissue culture, including the establishment, propagation, and maintenance of in-vitro cultures of forest trees, alongside microbiological tasks related to cultivating phytopathogenic fungi. Candidates must possess a state-recognized technical assistant qualification (Biological or Agricultural) and proven experience in molecular biology techniques and sterile working conditions. The role also involves supporting fieldwork, sampling, and assessments in various environments (greenhouse, nursery, forest). Success requires strong team skills, self-reliance, and fluency in German.

Required Skills

Education

State-recognized qualification as a Biological Technical Assistant, Agricultural Technical Assistant, or comparable qualification

Experience

  • Professional experience and knowledge in Molecular Biology (DNA extraction, PCR, Gel Electrophoresis)
  • Knowledge of working under sterile conditions
  • Knowledge of vegetative propagation of plants (tissue culture, grafting)
  • Knowledge in the cultivation of fungal pathogens

Languages

German (Fluent)

Additional

  • Fixed-term contract until September 30, 2028; Willingness to perform work under open-air conditions; Start date is January 1, 2026, subject to funding approval.