Doctoral Researcher Position: Microbial Pathogens & Climate Change – Friedrich Schiller University Jena
Join the Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse” for a groundbreaking 3.5-year PhD project on fungal pathogens and climate change.
Doctoral Researcher in Microbial Pathogens and Climate Change
Friedrich Schiller University Jena, one of Germany’s leading innovation-driven universities, is inviting applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in the areas of Microbial Pathogens and Climate Change. This role is part of the Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse” and offers a 3.5-year fixed-term contract starting in Autumn 2025 (or upon agreement).
About the University & Research Cluster
Located in Jena, Thuringia, Friedrich Schiller University is known for its excellence in research and interdisciplinary collaborations. The “Balance of the Microverse” cluster aims to explore microbial interactions in various environments—from oceans and groundwater to plants and human hosts.
The doctoral project will investigate how climate change impacts environmental fungal pathogens, their evolution, genome changes, and infectivity potential.
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Focus: Climate change effects on environmental fungal pathogens
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Approach: Laboratory experiments + bioinformatics analysis
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Duration: 3.5 years (TV-L E13, 65%)
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Funding: Excellence Strategy (German federal and state governments)
Responsibilities
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Conduct independent laboratory experiments
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Analyze project data using coding & bioinformatics tools
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Prepare manuscripts and publish results
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Present research at national & international conferences
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Collaborate with experimental and computational researchers
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Mentor and support junior researchers
Required Qualifications
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MSc in Biological Sciences, Bioinformatics, or related field (final-year MSc students can apply)
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Laboratory experience in microbiology and/or mycology
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Strong motivation, attention to detail, and collaborative spirit
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Excellent written and spoken English
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Willingness to learn coding for data analysis (NGS experience is a plus)
Benefits
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Interdisciplinary research environment within the Microverse community
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Structured doctoral training at Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC)
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Comprehensive mentoring and soft skills development
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Competitive public sector salary (TV-L E13, 65%) + annual bonus
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30 vacation days + extra holidays on Dec 24 & 31
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Family-friendly policies & flexible childcare options
Job Details :
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Doctoral Researcher in Microbial Pathogens and Climate Change |
| Organization/Publisher | Friedrich Schiller University Jena |
| Work Location | Jena, Thüringen, Germany |
| Research Field | Microbial Pathogens, Climate Change, Microbiology, Bioinformatics |
| Funding Info | Excellence Strategy of the German federal and state governments |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2025 |
| Posted Date | no information |
| Country | Germany |
| Researcher Profile | Doctoral Researcher (PhD candidate) |
| Apply Button | Apply Online Here |
| Required Qualification | MSc in Biological Sciences/Bioinformatics or related |
| Required Experience | Lab experience in microbiology/mycology; coding skills desirable |
| Salary Details | TV-L E13 (65%) + benefits |
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application via the Online Application Portal by 31 August 2025.
Reference: Friedrich Schiller University Jena – Official Posting