Probst

The University of Duisburg-Essen is advertising a Postdoctoral Researcher position in microbial ecology within the Environmental Metagenomics group led by Prof. Dr. Probst . The role is part of the ERC Synergy project Archean Park and focuses on exploring microbial metabolism during the Archean Eon by studying the deep biosphere in high-CO2 ecosystems hundreds of meters below ground. This is a highly interdisciplinary opportunity combining metagenomics , microbiology , geomicrobiology , bioinformatics , microscopy, and field-based sampling. The successful candidate will work with short- and long-read metagenomics, light and electron microscopy, cultivation of microbes, and research expeditions to drilling sites and other deep biosphere locations. The project involves collaboration with groups at MARUM Bremen, WWU Münster, and GFZ Potsdam, with opportunities for joint meetings, fieldwork, and cross-disciplinary research. The position is based at the University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany and is offered for 36 months at 100% working time under EG 13 TV-L . The posting highlights access to high-performance computing and imaging facilities, as well as membership in the Water Graduate School for training and career development. The team encourages international candidates to apply and offers a research-intensive, collaborative environment with flexible working options. Eligibility highlights: PhD or equivalent in microbiology, microbial ecology, geomicrobiology, or a related area; strong cultivation and imaging skills; advanced bioinformatics; and programming experience in shell, Python, and/or R. Experience with environmental DNA extraction is expected, while fieldwork and bioreactor experience are a plus. Application deadline: 2026-09-02. Apply by email to Prof. Dr. Probst at sekretariat.probst@uni-due.de and quote reference number 363-26 .