PostDoc position in IRTG “Geo-ecosystems in transition on the Tibetan Plateau” (TransTiP): Molecular ecology microorganisms

Topic: Molecular ecology of modern and ancient freshwater (micro-)organisms in Lake Nam Co, Tibetan Plateau

Application deadline: November 15, 2020
Start of position: March 1st, 2021 (until June 30, 2022; with possible extension for additional 2 years)

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for the DFG-funded Sino-German Research Training Group (GRK 2309) “Geo-ecosystems in transition on the Tibetan Plateau” (TransTiP).

TransTiP strives to understand effects of climate change on the Tibetan Plateau, an area of crucial importance for the global hydrological, energy and biogeochemical cycles. In particular, the research program focuses to bridge our understanding on dynamics of sediments, soil organic carbon, water, and biodiversity in the light of land use and climate change. For more details please refer to https://www.tu-braunschweig.de/irtg-transtip/research

The postdoctoral researcher will be located at the Leibniz Institute DSMZ in Braunschweig (Department of Microorganisms, Prof. Michael Pester) and work in very close collaboration with the Institute of Geosystems and Bioindication, TU Braunschweig (Prof. A. Schwalb).
https://www.dsmz.de/research/microorganisms; https://www.tu-braunschweig.de/igeo

As a core task, the researcher will use molecular tools based on ancient DNA to reconstruct past community compositions of selected freshwater indicator species (especially ostracodes, diatoms, and cyanobacteria) in Tibetan Plateau water bodies. This work should go hand in hand with doctoral research projects working on biogeochemical proxies of past climate conditions (e.g., lipid biomarkers) and the living microbial biosphere inhabiting deep sediments. Furthermore, we encourage the researcher to develop and pursue an own, independent research line fitting the main scientific interests of the host laboratories and further develop leadership skills by closely collaborating with the doctoral researchers of TransTiP. Willingness to perform sampling trips in high-altitude areas and to perform part of the experimental work in collaborating Chinese research institutions (Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing and Lhasa) is mandatory. Project details can be found here: https://www.tu-braunschweig.de/irtg-transtip/research/projects/biogeography/postdoc1.

We will preferably hire a researcher with experience in the analysis of environmental DNA / ancient DNA analysis / metabarcoding of eukaryotic or prokaryotic organisms. Expertise with analysis of next-generation sequencing techniques (e.g. Illumina amplicon analysis) and associated bioinformatics and statistical tools will be of high advantage. Candidates who lack expertise in these methods, but have hands-on experience with other sophisticated molecular laboratory techniques, lab management and student supervision are also encouraged to apply. Fluent verbal and written English communication skills and first-author papers in peer-reviewed international journals are required.

Please submit your application (in English) as one pdf file to [email protected] before 15. November 2020. The application should include the following information: CV, transcript of records, certificates, letter of motivation, one-page proposal in the topical area of the proposed project, and two reference letters. Further information and eligibility criteria: How to apply.

TU Braunschweig is an equal opportunity employer committed to excellence through diversity. We explicitly encourage women to apply and preference will be given to disabled applicants with equivalent qualifications.