PhD Position in Oxic Methane Production using Chemical-Analytical Methods | Promotionsstelle

Job Summary

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated scientist to undertake a PhD project within the DFG-funded 'MPn-Baltic Sea' project at the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research (IOW). The focus of this 36-month position is on understanding the contribution of methylphosphonate (MPn) to oxic microbial methane formation in the Baltic Sea. Day-to-day tasks involve independently conducting chemical-instrumental analyses of MPn and methane using advanced techniques like LC-MSMS and GC-FID, as well as adapting methods for stable carbon isotope analysis using a Picarro system. The candidate will collect and analyze quantitative data from the Baltic Sea and Warnow Estuary, perform laboratory and field incubation experiments (including a 14-day expedition in Summer 2026), and publish results in peer-reviewed journals. The role requires a strong background in chemistry or oceanography, excellent English skills, and a willingness to participate in fieldwork.