Location

Essen

Application area

Faculty of Biology, CCAC Algal Cultures

Research Assistent/PhD (f/m/d, No. 413-25)
EG 13 TV-L

Start of employment

As soon as possible

Duration of employment

36 months

Working time

26 hours, 41 minutes (67%)

Your main tasks

Project "Evolutionary trajectories of nitrogen utilization across distant phylogenetic groups of microalgae" in the group of Dr. Olga Matantseva co-supervised by Prof. Dr. Daniela Beisser and Prof. Dr. Bánk Beszteri.

This project will be conducted at the Central Collection of Algal Cultures (CCAC), one of the largest living collections of micro-algal cultures in the world. Embedded in UDE's profile focus on water research, the CCAC team maintains this resource and serves research and teaching activities at UDE and beyond through the supply of algal cultures, collaborations and consultancy. The algae collection is also actively involved in research projects.

The project investigates the adaptive evolution of key nitrogen utilization components in microalgae. Nitrogen, a crucial element in biomolecules, is assimilated by photoautotrophic eukaryotic organisms in organic and inorganic forms. Anthropogenic activities are reshaping nutrient dynamics, altering both the load and the prevalent form of nitrogen entering freshwater and coastal marine ecosystems thus affecting the structure and dynamics of primary producers. Understanding how microalgae respond to these shifts is vital for predicting their role in primary productivity, biogeochemical cycling, and the long-term sustainability of aquatic ecosystems under global change.

The goal of this research is to systematically identify core components involved in the uptake and assimilation of organic and inorganic nitrogen, as well as cellular signalling pathways regulating these processes in distant phylogenetic groups of microalgae: green algae, dinoflagellates, diatoms, and euglenophytes, and to trace their evolutionary trajectories.

The study employs a multidisciplinary approach at the interface of physiology and evolutionary biology. It integrates comparative genomic analyses of both established and novel algal genomes with experimental studies using stable isotopes and transcriptome sequencing to investigate nitrogen uptake and gene expressional responses to various nitrogen supply scenarios. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the crossroads of evolutionary biology, ecophysiology, and environmental change.

Your profile

• You hold a Master in Aquatic Biology, Biological Oceanography, Environmental Microbiology, Evolutionary Biology, General Biology with an aquatic or microbial specialisation, or a related discipline
• You have an excellent track record ideally including experience in cultivating microorganisms, analysing genomic and transcriptomic data, performing physiological experiments
• You have a strong interest in bioinformatic work
• You possess a very good command of spoken and written English
• Prior experience with microalgae, flow cytometry and stable isotope incubations is an advantage

We offer you

• The interdisciplinary research environment at the Central Collection of Algal Cultures (CCAC) and the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE)
• Access to state-of-the-art technologies and methods, including: next generation sequencing, flow cytometry, isotope ratio mass spectrometry
• A collaborative working atmosphere in a friendly and motivated team
• Opportunities for training, conferences, and integration into broader research networks
• Family-friendly policies, including childcare services
• Support and counseling for family caregiving responsibilities
• A comprehensive range of training and professional development opportunities, with individualized onboarding
• Excellent public transport connections and free parking
• Attractive sports and health programs (university sports)
• The possibility to work from home (home office)

Application deadline

2025-08-20

Code number

413-25

Application

Please send applications with reference code 413-25 electronically to olga.matantseva@uni-due.de.

Please note that applications cannot be returned.

Information about the job

For more information please visit:

https://udue.de/ccac

https://ww.uni-due.de/biology/

Open minded

We are a young, innovative university located in the heart of the Ruhr metropolis. We pride ourselves in outstanding research and teaching, think in terms of opportunities rather than limitations and develop ideas with a view to the future. Diversity is an integral part of our culture as we promote potential and are committed to upholding genuine equity in education.

Learn more

University of Duisburg-Essen pursues the goal of promoting the diversity of its members.
www.uni-due.de/diversity/en

In accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act, women with the same qualifications are given preferential consideration.

Applications from suitable disabled persons and persons of equal status within the meaning of § 2 para. 3 SGB IX are desired.

By applying for one of the advertised positions, you expressly agree to the requirements in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and to being contacted by mail. Further information on data protection can be found here.

Back

www.uni-due.de/karriere