The University of Oldenburg is seeking to fill the following position:
Postdoctoral Researcher in Microalgal Systems Biology
Paygrade
E13 TV-L
Working Hours
100% (suitable for part-time)
Institution
Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM) (School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences)
Location
Oldenburg (Oldb)
Application Deadline
15.11.2026
First day of work
01.04.2027
Limited
for 3 years
About us
The ICBM is an interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to fundamental and applied marine science. More than 20 research groups - spanning chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematical modelling - collaborate to understand the functioning of environmental systems.
The position is based in the General and Molecular Microbiology group led by Prof. Dr. Ralf Rabus and is embedded in the Lower Saxony collaborative project Marine Algal Systems Biology (MAlSyB), a joint initiative of the Universities Oldenburg, Hannover, Braunschweig and Göttingen, and the DSMZ in Braunschweig. The MAlSyB project investigates the globally distributed, bloom-forming, marine dinoflagellate Prorocentrum cordatum . Next to its ecophysiological significance this unicellular model microalga stands out for its distinctive features ranging from cell biology and photosynthetic apparatus to a highly complex genome. We will study P. cordatum by integrating approaches from physiology, cell biology, systems biology and evolution. We aim at a mechanistic understanding of the adaptation strategies and the modulations of physiological performance against the backdrop of climate-forces changes.
Your tasks
You will investigate how changing nutrient regimes govern the physiological performance of P. cordatum . Specifically, you will use tailored cultivations of the microalga to study its cell biological dynamics (resolved by FIB/SEM) and the modulations of its protein complexes constituting the photosynthetic apparatus (BN-PAGE coupled to mass spectrometry). You will integrate your findings with proteomic data for the respiratory apparatus and the global systems biology-level data generated within the MAlSyB consortium. You will have an active and integrative part in the consortium.
Your profile
Qualifying academic university degree (Master or Diploma) and a PhD in microbiology, cell biology, proteomics, or a related field. Relevant research experience is essential. Knowledge in general physiology and experience in OMICS methods and image analysis is desirable. Applicants should be fluent in written and spoken English and show strong interest in multidisciplinary teamwork across the working groups of the MAlSyB consortium.
Our standards
The University of Oldenburg is dedicated to increase the percentage of female employees in the field of science. Therefore, female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. In accordance to § 21 Section 3 NHG, female candidates with equal qualifications will be preferentially considered. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualification.
Contact
For further information regarding this position, please contact Prof. Dr. Ralf Rabus ( ).
Apply now
Please send your application via e-mail by 15.11.2026 to
Applications, including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and qualifying documents (final degree records), should be submitted as a single pdf file to Prof. Dr. Ralf Rabus.
Benefits at University of Oldenburg
30 days vacation
Secure remuneration according to collective agreement
Company pension scheme
Further education opportunities
Flexible working hours
Health management
Remote working
Compatibility of career and family
Support with childcare
University Sports Centre
Certificate Bicycle-friendly employer
Corporate Benefits
