Anaerobic ammonium oxidation and methanogenesis stimulated by redox-active iron mineral nanoparticles

We are seeking an Environmental Microbiologist or Geomicrobiologist to study the improvement of simultaneous removal of ammonium and formation of methane by applying iron mineral nanoparticles. This project will investigate cultures of anaerobic Fe(III)-reducing ammonium-oxidizing (Feammox) and methanogenic microorganisms amended with iron mineral nanoparticles for ammonium removal, phosphorous recovery and simultaneous production of methane. 

We will carry out laboratory batch and bioreactor experiments with geochemical and molecular analyses (qPCR, metatranscriptomics) to follow microbial growth and activity, NH4+ removal and CH4 production efficiency. In addition, the nanoparticles will be analyzed (wet-chemistry, electron microscopy, XRD, Mössbauer spectroscopy).

The PhD student and postdoc will be given opportunities to be creative and innovative, to apply state-of-the art microbiological and geochemical analyses, molecular techniques, microbial physiological studies, microscopy, and spectroscopy. 

Start date for successful applicant is March 2025 (or as soon as the candidate is available). Employment (TVL E13, for 3 years; 100% for the postdoc; 75% for the PhD student) will be arranged by the University of Tübingen. 
 

In your application, please indicate whether you are applying for the PhD or for the postdoc position. To apply, please send a CV, motivation letter and overview of techniques and methods previously used by email before.

Requirements:
•       Strong background in Environmental Microbiology, Microbial Ecology and Geochemistry. 
•       Ability to work independently and in a team.
•       Excellent management and communication skills.
•       Highly motivated for interdisciplinary research.
•       Good computer and language (English) skills.
 

December 30th, 2024 to:

Prof. Dr. Andreas Kappler (andreas.kappler@uni-tuebingen.de), Geomicrobiology, Department of Geosciences, University of Tübingen, Germany. https://uni-tuebingen.de/de/104138

Job Announcement PDF

Senckenberg world of biodiversity

The Senckenberg Society for Nature Research (Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, SGN) was founded in 1817 and is one of the most important research institutions around biological diversity. At its eleven sites throughout Germany, scientists from over 40 nations conduct cutting-edge research on an international scale. At the site in Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg, the Senckenberg Centre for Human Evolution and Palaeoenvironmant (SHEP) is located in a lively university town with historical flair and numerous local recreational opportunities. The Senckenberg Centre for Human Evolution and Palaeoenvironment (SHEP) at the University of Tübingen is seeking to fill a

Postdoctoral Position (m/f/d) in
Experimental biogeochemistry of aDNA in archaeological deposits

(full-time position, part time options available)

The position will start as soon as possible and will be primarily hosted in the Geo-Biosphere Interactions working group within the University of Tübingen. The project is nested within the Leibniz Science Campus “Geogenomic Archaeology Campus Tübingen” (GACT). GACT brings together experts from the fields of archaeology, genetics, geosciences, ecology, and microbiology to examine the evolutionary relationship between humans and ecosystem biodiversity through the multidisciplinary analysis of sedimentary cave archives containing ancient DNA.
 

Your tasks
• Develop and conduct experiments that test the effect of phosphorous and other elements on the mobility of (ancient) DNA in cave sediments.
• Apply stable and radioactive isotopes combined with geochemical analysis.
• Work with trace amounts of radioactive phosphorous within state-of-the-art radionuclide facilities.
• Analysis and interpretation of geoarchaeological samples from Pleistocene cave deposits.
Your profile
• Doctorate in archaeological sciences, geoarchaeology, geosciences/geology, soil science, paleogenetics, biology, bioinformatics or a related field.
• The ideal applicant (f/m/d) will have knowledge in biogeochemical cycles in soils and/or sediments, and a genuine interest in the human past and linking their data with biomolecular analysis.
• Previous experience in experimental applications of isotopic tracers, and soil and/or sediment geochemical analysis is recommended.
• Good communication skills in order to work in a highly collaborative and international environment
• Very good command of written and spoken English. Knowledge of German is appreciated but is not a requirement.

We offer
• a varied and interesting job in a globally recognized research institution
• independent action in an international and professional environment
• flexible working hours - possibility of mobile working - support with childcare or caring for family members (certified by the "audit berufundfamilie") – Senckenberg badge in combination with free admission to numerous municipal museums - a collectively agreed annual special payment - collectively agreed vacation entitlement - company pension plan Place of employment: Tübingen (Baden-Württemberg) Working hours: Full-time (39,5 hours/week), part time options are available Type of contract: 2 years with possibility of extension Pay: according to the public collective agreement TV-L E13 Senckenberg is committed to diversity. We benefit from the different expertise, perspectives and personalities of our staff and welcome every application from qualified candidates, irrespective of age, gender, ethnic or cultural origin, religion and ideology, sexual orientation and identity or disability. Women are particularly encouraged to apply, as they are underrepresented in the field of this position; in the case of equal qualifications and suitability they will be given preference. Applicants with a severe disability (“Schwerbehinderung”) will be given special consideration in case of equal suitability. Senckenberg actively supports the compatibility of work and family and places great emphasis on an equal and inclusive work culture.

You would like to be part of our team?
Please submit your complete an meaningful application including a letter of motivation, a CV, scans of academic transcripts, and contact details of two potential academic referees as a single PDF file. Applications should be submitted electronically no later than the 1st of December 2024 and addressed to recruitingspam prevention@senckenberg.de quoting the reference number 10-24002-1.

Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung
Senckenberganlage 25
60325 Frankfurt a.M.
E-Mail: recruitingspam prevention@senckenberg.de

For scientific inquiries regarding the position please contact the GACT Scientific Coordinator:
Dr. Gerlinde Bigga, E-Mail: gerlinde.biggaspam prevention@senckenberg.de

For more information about the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung please go to www.senckenberg.de.

Job Announcement PDF