Postdoctoral Job in Microbial Ecology at University of Marburg, Germany 2026
The Philipps-Universität Marburg invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in Microbial Conservation within the Department of Biology. The position is part of the research group “EvoEcoPlants”, led by Robert R. Junker, and offers an exciting opportunity for researchers interested in microbial ecology, biodiversity conservation, plant-microbe interactions, and environmental change.
Founded in 1527, the University of Marburg is among Germany’s oldest universities and provides a globally connected research environment for approximately 22,000 students across a broad range of scientific disciplines.
Postdoc Position Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| University | University of Marburg, Germany |
| Department | Department of Biology |
| Research Group | EvoEcoPlants |
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Microbial Conservation |
| Starting Date | October 1, 2026 |
| Duration | Initially 2 years |
| Employment Type | Full-time |
| Salary | TV-H E13 |
| Location | Marburg, Hesse, Germany |
| Application Deadline | August 2, 2026 |
Research Project: Conserving Microbial Diversity in a Changing World
Microorganisms play a fundamental role in maintaining ecosystem functions and providing essential ecological services. They influence nutrient cycling, plant health, soil processes, and environmental stability.
Despite their importance, microorganisms remain largely overlooked in many biodiversity conservation strategies.
The successful candidate will help establish an empirical foundation for understanding the importance of microbial conservation and evaluating approaches that protect microbial diversity under increasing global environmental pressures.
The research may involve:
- Field-based ecological observations
- Laboratory experiments
- Microbial community analysis
- Bioinformatic investigation of public datasets
- Experimental approaches to understand ecosystem microbial functions
The project provides flexibility for the researcher to develop innovative approaches and shape their own research direction in collaboration with Prof. Junker.
Main Responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Researcher
The selected candidate will contribute to research, academic coordination, and teaching activities.
Responsibilities include:
Scientific Research
- Developing and conducting research projects related to microbial conservation
- Designing experimental approaches and analytical strategies
- Investigating relationships between microorganisms, ecosystems, and environmental change
- Publishing research findings in scientific journals
Research Group Management
- Supporting organizational tasks within the research group
- Assisting with coordination of related research activities
- Contributing ideas to improve collaborative research projects
Teaching and Mentoring
- Participating in university teaching activities
- Co-supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s student research projects
- Supporting PhD candidates and early-career researchers
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should have a strong academic background in biology, environmental sciences, ecology, or related disciplines.
Required Qualifications
Candidates must have:
- A completed university degree (Master’s, Diploma, or equivalent)
- A successfully completed PhD degree in:
- Biology
- Environmental sciences
- Ecology
- A related scientific discipline
Preferred Research Experience
Applicants should have expertise in one or more of the following areas:
Plant-Microbiome Interactions
Experience studying relationships between plants and associated microbial communities.
Experimental Microbial Ecology
Practical experience with:
- Field-based ecological research
- Laboratory microbial experiments
- Community analysis techniques
Molecular and Microbiological Methods
Knowledge of:
- DNA-based microbial analysis
- Molecular biology techniques
- Microbial identification methods
Bioinformatics
Experience with:
- High-throughput amplicon sequencing
- Metagenomics
- Analysis of publicly available biological datasets
Skills and Personal Qualities
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Strong publication record related to microbial ecology or related fields
- Excellent written and spoken English skills
- Ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively
- Commitment to mentoring students and junior researchers
- Interest in interdisciplinary collaboration
- Ability to work effectively in an international research environment
Knowledge of German is beneficial but not mandatory, as teaching can be conducted in either German or English.
Salary and Benefits
This Postdoctoral Researcher position provides a competitive academic employment package according to the public service salary agreement of Hesse, Germany.
Salary Classification
TV-H E13 (Full-time)
Additional benefits include:
Hessian Public Transport Pass
Employees receive access to public transportation throughout the state of Hesse through the Hessian transport pass.
Flexible Working Conditions
The university supports work-life balance through:
- Flexible working hours
- Family-friendly policies
- Possibility of partial remote or hybrid work where applicable
Professional Development
Researchers benefit from opportunities for:
- Scientific career development
- Academic networking
- Research training
- Skill development
Occupational Pension Scheme
Employees are eligible for the public sector occupational pension scheme (VBL).
Why Apply for This Postdoctoral Opportunity?
This position is ideal for researchers who want to contribute to an emerging scientific field connecting:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Microbial ecology
- Climate change research
- Ecosystem sustainability
- Environmental biotechnology
Microbial conservation is becoming an increasingly important research area as scientists recognize the role of microorganisms in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
The position offers independence, international collaboration, and the opportunity to develop a strong academic profile.
Application, Deadline and Contact Information
Interested candidates should submit their application before: August 2, 2026, Please apply by 2nd August 2026 using APPLY NOW.
For research-related questions:
Prof. Dr. Robert R. Junker
Telephone: +49 6421-28 22434
Email: Robert.Junker@uni-marburg.de
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Marburg encourages applications from women and supports equal opportunities in academic careers. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants may receive preference when qualifications are equal.
As a certified family-friendly university, the institution supports employees in balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Applicants with disabilities who have equivalent qualifications will receive preference according to German legal regulations. Application and interview expenses cannot be reimbursed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this a funded Postdoctoral Researcher position in Germany?
Yes. The position is a paid full-time research position with salary according to the German public service agreement TV-H E13.
2. What is the research topic of this Postdoc position?
The project focuses on microbial conservation, investigating how global change affects microorganisms and how microbial diversity can be protected.
3. Who can apply for this Postdoc position?
Applicants with a completed PhD in biology, environmental sciences, ecology, or related disciplines are eligible.
4. Can international researchers apply?
Yes. The University of Marburg welcomes qualified international applicants. Excellent English communication skills are required.
5. Is German language knowledge required?
No. Teaching activities can be conducted in English or German. Knowledge of German is considered an advantage.
6. What research methods may be used in this project?
The research may involve field observations, laboratory experiments, microbial analysis, and bioinformatic evaluation of sequencing datasets.
7. What is the duration of the Postdoc contract?
The initial contract duration is two years, subject to applicable German academic employment regulations.
8. When does the position start?
The expected starting date is October 1, 2026.
9. Does the position include teaching responsibilities?
Yes. The researcher will participate in university teaching and supervise Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students.
10. What career development opportunities are available?
The University of Marburg provides professional development opportunities, research networking, and support for further academic qualification.
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