Postdoctoral Researcher (Molecular Ecologist) (m/f/d) with focus on Bryophytes

Postdoctoral Researcher (Molecular Ecologist) (m/f/d) with focus on Bryophytes

Senckenberg – Leibniz Institution for Biodiversity and Earth System Research (SGN), headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, is seeking to fill the following position in the research group Bryophyte Ecology & Evolution at the Senckenberg Institute for Plant Form and Function (SIP) in Jena starting as soon as possible.

Location: Jena (Thuringia, Germany) | Employment scope: Full-time (part-time options are available) | Type of contract: The start of the contract is as soon as possible. The contract is limited to 36 months, an extension is possible. | Remuneration: Collective agreement of the German Länder, TV-L E13.

The Senckenberg Society for Nature Research is a member of the Leibniz Association and has been investigating the “Earth System” worldwide for more than 200 years, examining the past, analysing the present, and developing projections for the future. We conduct integrative geobiodiversity research with the aim of understanding nature in all its complexity and diversity in order to preserve it as the foundation of life for future generations and to ensure its sustainable use. Across eight institutes and five research stations throughout Germany, scientists from more than 40 countries conduct research at the highest international level.

The research group Bryophyte Ecology & Evolution at the Senckenberg Institute for Plant Form and Function Jena (SIP) and the University of Jena (FSU) deals with ecological and evolutionary research questions related to biodiversity and the adaptation of plants – specifically bryophytes – to various habitats. We use fieldwork, experiments under controlled conditions and the collection of the herbarium Haussknecht to understand the interplay of molecular and morphological variation and environmental change in time and space. A current focus is on understanding the biology of evolutionary young and rapidly evolving bryophyte groups and their responses to global change. The selected candidate will use population genetics and genomics/transcriptomics together with environmental and trait data to investigate microhabitat adaptation and its role in speciation and hybridization.

Responsibilities

• Conduct data collection in field settings, the herbarium and in the laboratory, including DNA/RNA sequencing.
• Perform bioinformatic and statistical analyses of research data.
• Interpret the results and prepare data and research findings for publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Present results at national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars.
• Curate data, including the deposition of datasets in data repositories.
• Actively take part in group and project meetings.
• Possibility to develop and conduct own third‑party funded research.

Qualifications

• A doctoral degree (or in the stage of its finalisation) in Biology or a related subject with a focus on molecular ecology.
• Experience in:
  1. ecological‑evolutionary genomics, and/or transcriptomics, and/or genetics;
  2. plant systematics and/or functional biodiversity;
  3. state‑of‑the‑art molecular laboratory techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, NGS‑sequencing;
  4. bioinformatic and statistical methods based on bash, R or Python.
• An open mind‑set, curiosity and a strong motivation to excel in science.
• A collaborative attitude and good communication skills.
• Good organisational skills, reliability and efficiency.
• Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills in English.

Advantageous Qualifications

• Knowledge on the biology of bryophytes and/or experience in working with bryophytes.
• First experience with funding‑acquisition.
• German language skills.

Benefits

• Access to an international network of scientists, policymakers and research organizations.
• The possibility to get involved in teaching and student supervision.
• An attractive job within the inspired and dynamic working environment of an internationally recognized research institution.
• Flexible working hours – mobile working options – assistance with child care and care for family members ("audit berufundfamilie").
• Annual special payment – collectively agreed vacation entitlement – company pension plan.

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. Applicants with a severe disability 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.

How to apply

Please send your meaningful and complete application (letter of motivation, your CV, a maximum two‑page description of your research interest including ideas for future research linked to this position, certificates of academic achievements, list of publications as well as letter(s) of recommendation, if available) as a single PDF by March 29, 2026 to

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