Postdoctoral researcher in environmental microbial ecology Full-time

Postdoctoral Researcher In Environmental Microbial Ecology

The Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Denmark, invites applications for a two-year, fixed-term postdoctoral position in environmental microbial ecology, starting 1 February, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is part of a project funded by the Villum Foundation's Villum Experiment programme.

The project aims to characterize the phylogenetic identity and ecophysiology of microorganisms associated with electrically conductive iron minerals in anoxic aquatic sediments. We hypothesize that these minerals provide a distinct niche that selectively enriches electroactive microorganisms relative to the surrounding sediment.

This is a two–year position from 1 February, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter. This is a fixed-term position to end on 31 January, 2029.

You will identify, visualize and characterize bacterial and archaeal cells associated with iron minerals by combining fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and correlative imaging, DNA- and/or RNA-based omics, and stable isotope incubation experiments. You will have considerable freedom to shape the methodological approach and to develop your own ideas within the project framework. Project collaborators in Germany will contribute chemical characterization of the minerals, giving you the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary team. Participation in supervision of BSc., MSc. and PhD students and possibly some classroom teaching is also expected.

You hold a PhD in biology, earth and environmental science, biotechnology or a related field (or expect to complete it before the start date), and you have a research background in microbiology or microbial ecology.

Essentials: Experience with advanced microscopy and/or molecular microbial ecology methods. Interest in microbial physiology and electromicrobiology. A systematic approach to method development and testing. A publication record in international peer-reviewed journals, relative to your career stage. Very good written and oral communication skills in English.

Desirable: Experience with FISH, correlative microscopy, stable isotope probing, or omics data analysis. Experience working with sediment or other environmental samples. Experience with microbial physiology and/or electromicrobiology.

At the Department of Biology, we value a collegial and inclusive working environment and place strong emphasis on good relationships among colleagues and students. We welcome colleagues who bring an open, constructive and collaborative approach.

The Department of Biology (Aarhus University) provides a framework for research and teaching in all major biological subdisciplines. The department currently encompasses approximately 200 academic and technical staff and 45 PhD students while 400 students follow the BSc and MSc programs offered by the department. The Section for Microbiology employs 12 associate and full professors and offers a vibrant, international research environment for studying microbial physiology, evolution, ecology, and biogeochemistry.

What we offer includes a two-year position in a stimulating, international research environment, access to state-of-the-art laboratories and imaging facilities, a work environment encouraging lively, open and critical discussion, a work environment with close working relationships, networking and social activities, and a workplace characterized by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance.

The place of work is Aarhus University, and the place of employment is Section for Microbiology within the Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Ny Munkegade 114, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.

Applicants seeking further information are invited to contact Assoc. Prof. Kasper Urup Kjeldsen at AU (kasperuk@bio.au.dk).

Applications must be received no later than 29 November, 2026.

Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self.