Friedrich Schiller University Jena
4 days ago
Doctoral Researcher in Viral Ecology (PhD) at Friedrich Schiller University Jena Friedrich Schiller University Jena in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Part-time paid doctoral employment at 65% (26 hours/week) on a fixed-term contract until 30 June 2030. Salary is based on TV-L up to E13 depending on qualifications, including a special annual payment.
Deadline
Oct 2, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Friedrich Schiller University Jena

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About this position
Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany) is advertising a Doctoral Researcher in Viral Ecology within the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre 1768 VirusREvolution: Decoding tools for virus research. The doctoral project asks: Do viruses exploit their quasispecies for host range evolution? and focuses on how host range and environmental conditions shape virus diversity and virus-host interactions in natural and experimentally manipulated microbial communities.
The position is based at the Institute of Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution, Faculty of Biological Sciences. Research activities include experimental microbiology, environmental sampling, host-range assays, targeted microcosm experiments, and analysis of metagenomic and viromic datasets from soil and groundwater ecosystems. The role also involves collaboration with the tandem project partner, participation in the research centre, and interaction with BSc and MSc students.
Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold an MSc or equivalent in biology, microbiology, microbial ecology, virology, bioinformatics, or a related field. Experience in experimental microbiology, microbial ecology, and molecular biological methods is expected; bioinformatic experience with sequencing-based approaches such as metagenomics and viromics is desirable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, independence, teamwork, and excellent English are required.
Funding and conditions: this is a paid part-time doctoral employment (65%, 26 hours/week) on a fixed-term contract until 30 June 2030. Salary follows TV-L up to E13 depending on qualifications and includes a special annual payment. The university also highlights a structured training environment, support from the Jena Graduate Academy, family-friendly conditions, health promotion, and sports opportunities.
Application deadline: 01 October 2026. Apply via the university’s online form.
Funding details
Part-time paid doctoral employment at 65% (26 hours/week) on a fixed-term contract until 30 June 2030. Salary is based on TV-L up to E13 depending on qualifications, including a special annual payment.
What's required
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 is expected; knowledge of sequencing-based bioinformatic approaches such as metagenomics and viromics is desirable, as is experience with virus-host interactions. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, independence, teamwork, and excellent written and spoken English are required.
How to apply
Apply online by 01 October 2026 using the university’s online application form. Check the applicant information and data privacy notice before submitting.
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