Research Associates (m/f/d) in Evolution, Genomics and Cell Biology of Algae in Koblenz, Deutschland

The University of Koblenz stands for interdisciplinarity in practice, innovative strength, and a dynamic approach to shaping the future. It makes a decisive contribution to the development of a strong academic and economic region, while also maintaining a strong international presence and network. Its researchers are dedicated to addressing key, socially relevant issues in the four focus areas of education, computer science, culture and communication, and materials and the environment. Approximately 9,800 students benefit from a high-quality, flexible range of academic programs. The university offers its staff attractive working conditions. Join our team and help shape our future! 

We are seeking, to start as soon as possible, two part-time (65%) fixed-term

Research Associates (m/f/d)

in Evolution, Genomics and Cell Biology of Algae

The position is for 65% of a full-time workload (currently 25.35 hours per week) and is limited to a term of three years. The fixed-term appointment is based on the provisions of the German Act on Fixed-Term Employment Contracts in Academia (WissZeitVG). Further academic qualification (Ph.D.) is part of the job responsibilities and is strongly encouraged. 

The positions are in the field of evolution, genomics, and cell biology of algae within the Aquatic Ecosystem Analysis research group at the Institute for Integrated Natural Sciences, Biology, in Division 3: Mathematics/Natural Sciences.

How do new photosynthetic organelles arise, and how are they permanently integrated into a eukaryotic cell? In a newly discovered photosynthetic single-celled organism, we are investigating an unusually complex plastid whose evolutionary origin and cellular integration have so far remained largely unclear. This system thus offers a rare opportunity to study key processes of the evolution and integration of photosynthetic organelles in a living organism. Preliminary genomic and ultrastructural data suggest that the plastids arose from a complex endosymbiosis with an alga.

At the heart of the project is a yet-to-be-named unicellular alga from the Cercozoa. Two closely linked doctoral projects are jointly investigating the evolutionary origin of the plastids. One of the projects focuses on genomic adaptations, while the second, primarily using microscopy, examines the cellular integration and functional properties of the plastids. To this end, we combine modern genomics and phylogenomics with bioinformatic analyses, cell culture, and light and electron microscopy techniques. Among other things, we are investigating the genomes of the host cell and the plastid, the transfer and origin of plastidial genes and proteins, as well as the architecture and inheritance of plastids within the cell. 

Both positions combine experimental work in the wet lab with the analysis of genomic and microscopic data, offering scope for diverse research focuses in the fields of algae evolution, genomics, and cell biology. 

The doctoral projects are based in the Aquatic Ecosystem Analysis research group, are closely coordinated, and are designed to last three years. Further information about the research group can be found at  .

Your Responsibilities

• Advanced scientific training with the goal of earning a Ph.D.
• Independent work on a Ph.D. project focusing on the evolution and cellular integration of a complex plastid
• Conducting and evaluating genomic, phylogenomic, microscopic, and cell biological studies with a project-specific focus
• Cultivation and experimental investigation of unicellular algae, as well as analysis of the data generated
• Interpretation and publication of research results in international journals, as well as presentation at scientific conferences
• Close collaboration within the joint research project and with national and international partners

Your Profile

• A successfully completed graduate degree (Master’s or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, or a related field
• A strong interest in research questions in the fields of evolution, genomics, and/or cell biology
• Experience in at least one of the following areas is an asset: cultivation of microorganisms or algae, molecular biology methods, genomics and bioinformatics, phylogenetics or phylogenomics, or light and electron microscopy
• Willingness and interest in independently familiarizing yourself with new experimental or bioinformatics methods
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for work
• Very good written and spoken English skills 
• An independent, structured, and meticulous approach to work, as well as a high degree of motivation and scientific curiosity
• Ability to work well in a team and interest in close collaboration within a joint, interdisciplinary research project

We offer

• An exciting and highly varied scope of responsibilities in a collegial team with open communication structures 
• Compensation according to Pay Grade 13 of the TV-L 
• standard public-sector benefits in accordance with TV-L (annual bonus, pension plan (VBL))
• Work-life balance, flexible working hours
• A diverse sports program with health-promoting activities

The University of Koblenz welcomes applications from people of all ages, regardless of gender identity, disability, ethnic or cultural background, religion, worldview, or sexual orientation. We strive to increase the proportion of women in our workforce and are therefore particularly interested in applications from women.

In cases of equal qualifications and competence, women will be given preferential consideration if they are underrepresented. People with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if their professional and personal qualifications are otherwise equal.

For further information, please contact the two project leaders, Prof. Dr. Kenneth Dumack ( [email protected] ) and Dr. Jule Freudenthal ( [email protected] ).

Please submit your complete application materials (cover letter, resume detailing your academic and research background, and copies of relevant degree certificates) by 22.11.2026 , citing reference number 110/2026 , exclusively via email as a single PDF file to [email protected] . Please briefly explain in your cover letter which of the two research areas “Evolution and Genomics of Plastids” or “Cell Biology and Microscopic Investigation of Plastid Integration” you are particularly interested in. Applications expressing interest in both research areas are expressly welcome. Please do not submit application photos. Upon completion of the selection process, the application materials will be destroyed in accordance with data protection regulations.