Postdoc Position on Lake Ecosystem Modelling at Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries in Germany

The Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a position focused on lake ecosystem modelling, based at Lake Stechlin, Brandenburg, Germany. This opportunity is part of the Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology and the research group “Theoretical Ecology” (AG Wollrab). The successful candidate will use existing lake ecosystem model frameworks, combined with trait-based plankton model approaches, to investigate the effects of anthropogenic influences and climate change on the ecosystem dynamics of deep, stratifying lakes in the temperate climate zone.

The research will emphasize the phosphorus cycle and changes in phytoplankton community composition and vertical distribution, particularly in relation to stratification regime and water residence time. Lake Stechlin, with over 50 years of extensive monitoring data, serves as the main study site. The project aims to understand the influence of phosphorus availability and stratification changes on phytoplankton dynamics, focusing on factors involved in the proliferation of deep chlorophyll maxima (DCM) forming species such as Planktothrix rubescense. The modelling will also provide projections for future phytoplankton composition under various climate change scenarios and assess consequences for lake productivity and water quality.

Key tasks include developing a 1D biogeochemical ecosystem model for Lake Stechlin, utilizing long-term data and implementing a trait-based approach to represent the phytoplankton community. The candidate will quantify the contribution of environmental factors (e.g., stratification regime, water residence time) to changes in phosphorus availability and phytoplankton community composition, and project future developments in phosphorus availability and primary productivity.

Applicants must have a doctoral degree in theoretical ecology, quantitative ecology, environmental sciences, or mathematics/physics with ecological applications. Strong expertise in process-based ecosystem modelling on aquatic systems is essential. Experience with model frameworks such as GOTM, ERGOM, or PCLake+ and coupling models via FABM is desirable, as is familiarity with adaptive trait-based model approaches. Excellent English communication skills and evidence of scientific productivity are required.

The position offers a dynamic, international scientific environment with flat hierarchies and active participation. Salary is paid according to the German public sector scheme (TVöD Bund, E13). The role is full-time (39 hours/week) but can be part-time (minimum 30 hours/week), and is fixed-term for 2 years. IGB supports career development, training opportunities, and work-life balance. Diversity is strongly encouraged, and applications from women and severely disabled applicants are given preferential consideration.

Applications should include a cover letter, CV, relevant certificates, and optionally letters of recommendation. Please state the job reference number 08/2026 and apply exclusively via the recruitment platform at www.igb-berlin.de/en/jobs by 15 June 2026. For questions, contact Dr. Sabine Wollrab at [email protected].

IGB is Germany’s largest and one of the leading international centres for freshwater research, conducting research at five locations in Berlin and at Lake Stechlin. The institute is a member of the German Leibniz Association and the Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V.