PhD Candidate (Metalloenzymes in Marine Phytoplankton Nutrient Uptake) | Doktorand:in (m/w/d) Metalloenzyme in der Nährstoffaufnahme von marinem Phytoplankton

Helmholtz-Zentrum für Ozeanforschung Kiel (GEOMAR)

Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, Deutschland
Published Feb 4, 2026
Part-time
Fixed-term

Job Summary

This PhD position, funded by the DFG, investigates the biochemical mechanisms of metalloenzymes utilized by marine phytoplankton to manage nutrient scarcity, particularly phosphorus, which is crucial for understanding global ocean productivity and climate regulation. The successful candidate will join the Emmy-Noether research group at GEOMAR, focusing on sterile cultivation of marine microorganisms, recombinant expression, and detailed biochemical characterization of metalloenzymes. Key responsibilities include applying advanced (meta-)proteomics, metallomics, and bioinformatics for data analysis and integration. The role requires a Master's degree in a relevant scientific discipline such as Biochemistry or Oceanography, coupled with substantial laboratory experience in molecular biology and statistical data handling (R/Python). This is an attractive opportunity offering international collaboration, participation in the FYORD career development program, and field sampling experience aboard research vessels, contributing to cutting-edge marine and climate research.

Required Skills

Education

Master's degree in (Bio-)Chemistry, (Micro-)Biology, Molecular Biology, Geosciences, Oceanography, Microbial Ecology, Genomics, or related fields

Experience

  • Professional lab experience in biochemistry (e.g., cultivation of microorganisms, protein overexpression, enzymatic assays)
  • Experience with -omics techniques (Proteomics, Transcriptomics, Genomics, etc.)
  • Experience in statistical data handling using tools like R or Python
  • Willingness to participate in field sampling expeditions on research vessels (Advantageous)

Languages

English (Fluent)

Additional

  • Fixed-term contract (36 months); Part-time position (75% of full-time hours); Eligibility for TVöD Bund E 13 salary group; Work location in Kiel, Germany