Doctoral Researcher in Viral Ecology (m/f/d)

Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena

07743 Jena

Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-10-01

Overview

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena seeks a Doctoral Researcher in Viral Ecology (m/f/d) commencing on 01 December 2026 in the Institute of Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution at the Faculty of Biological Sciences. The position is part-time (65%, 26 hours per week) with a fixed-term employment until 30 June 2030. The project is funded by the DFG Collaborative Research Centre 1768 “VirusREvolution” and involves an integrated research training group providing interdisciplinary training for doctoral researchers.

Conduct experimental work and analyses on virus–host interactions in soil and groundwater ecosystems, including host-range assays, environmental sampling, and targeted microcosm experiments
Analyse metagenomic and viromic data sets from soil and groundwater samples to identify broad- and narrow-host-range viruses to characterize their quasispecies characteristics
Participation in the Collaborative Research Centre VirusREvolution and close collaboration with the tandem project partner
Engage in regular discussions with other group and project members
Collaborate with BSc and MSc students working in associated projects
Publish papers and present your work at national and international scientific meetings

A highly motivated candidate with a Master of Science or equivalent degree in biology, microbiology, microbial ecology, virology, bioinformatics, or a related discipline
Experience in experimental microbiology, microbial ecology, and molecular biological methods; knowledge of sequencing-based bioinformatic approaches (metagenomics, viromics); experience with virus–host interactions are desirable
Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving
Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team
Excellent skills in English are required, both written and spoken

Embedding in a cross-disciplinary, experienced research group and a large, ambitious research consortium
Affiliation to an Integrated Research Training Group, offering close support and a comprehensive education program for hard skills and transferable skills, supported by the Jena Graduate Academy
A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families
University health promotion and a wide range of university sports activities
Remuneration based on the provisions of TV-L up to salary scale E13, including a special annual payment
30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31
Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualifications and suitability

Part-time position (65%, 26 hours per week)
Fixed-term employment until 30 June 2030
Salary according to TV-L up to E13, depending on qualifications
Start date: 01 December 2026 (as part of the project)
Location: not explicitly listed as a separate address in the text; work is within Friedrich Schiller University Jena facilities

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by 01 October 2026 using our online form. For further information for applicants and the information on the collection of personal data, please refer to Data privacy and information for applicants