Doctoral Researcher in Microalgal Systems Biology

The ICBM is an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to fundamental and applied marine science. More than 20 research groups - spanning chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematical modelling - collaborate to understand the functioning of environmental systems.

The position is based in the General and Molecular Microbiology group led by Prof. Dr. Ralf Rabus and is embedded in the Lower Saxony collaborative project Marine Algal Systems Biology (MAlSyB), a joint initiative of the Universities Oldenburg, Hannover, Braunschweig and Göttingen, and the DSMZ in Braunschweig. The MAlSyB project investigates the globally distributed, bloom-forming, marine dinoflagellate Prorocentrum cordatum. Next to its ecophysiological significance this unicellular model microalga stands out for its distinctive features ranging from cell biology and photosynthetic apparatus to a highly complex genome. We will study P. cordatum by integrating approaches from physiology, cell biology, systems biology and evolution. We aim at a mechanistic understanding of the adaptation strategies and the modulations of physiological performance against the backdrop of climate-forces changes. 

Your tasks

You will investigate how P. cordatum adapts to changing nutrient regimes. Specifically, you will conduct tailored cultivation experiments to quantify physiological performance and study the accompanying alterations of organelle structures (resolved by FIB/SEM) as well as dynamics of the soluble proteome (shotgun proteomics). You will integrate your findings with the global systems biology-level data generated within the MAlSyB consortium. 

Your profile

Qualifying academic university degree (Master or Diploma) in microbiology, cell biology, proteomics, or a related field. Relevant research experience, knowledge in general physiology and experience in OMICS methods and/or image analysis is desirable. Applicants should be fluent in written and spoken English and show strong interest in multidisciplinary teamwork across the working groups of the MAlSyB consortium.

Our standards

The University of Oldenburg is dedicated to increase the percentage of female employees in the field of science. Therefore, female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. In accordance to § 21 Section 3 NHG, female candidates with equal qualifications will be preferentially considered. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualification.

Contact

For further information regarding this position, please contact Prof. Dr. Ralf Rabus ( ).

Apply now

Please send your application via e-mail by 15.11.2026 to

Applications, including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and qualifying documents (final degree records), should be submitted as a single pdf file to Prof. Dr. Ralf Rabus.