Two-year postdoc in glacial microbial ecology Full-time

Two-Year Postdoc In Glacial Microbial Ecology

The Department of Environmental Science at Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark, welcomes applications for a postdoctoral researcher position in glacial microbial ecology with a focus on the role of glacial and snow algae on the darkening of the Greenland ice sheet.

Expected start date and duration of employment: 1st of September 2026. This is a two-year fixed-term position to end 24 months after the start date.

This opportunity is positioned at the heart of a collaboration between Aarhus University, EPFL and DTU to understand microbiological mechanisms underpinning the Greenland Ice Sheet darkening, and relate them to ice melt at large spatial scales using remote sensing. The postdoc in this project will be the main responsible for the acquisition of data related to snow and ice algae diversity, biomass, growth, and photophysiology on various locations on Greenland ice sheet. The postdoc employed at AU will work in close collaboration with postdocs at EPFL to: 1) quantify the contributions microbial and abiotic factors to darkening dynamics — in space and time and 2) disentangle the spectral properties of the various constituents (e.g., mineral particles, algae, cryoconite) and their respective contributions to albedo.

The selected candidate will take on several duties, including:

• Contribute to, and develop, research in environmental microbiology across cryospheric systems, with a focus on glacial and snow algae
• Plan and carry out fieldwork campaigns on the Greenland ice sheet, including taking responsibilities for logistics and international collaborations
• Analyse Arctic microbial communities and their physiological responses to environmental conditions
• Apply advanced laboratory and analytical techniques to environmental samples
• Apply for external funding and participate in collaborative research projects and funding applications
• Co-supervise PhD and Master's students and contribute to the teaching carried out within the section
• Participate in departmental activities, including administration and outreach
• Moreover, a spirit of collaboration is vital, as the selected postdoc will be an integral part of our research team in Cryo-Biology

A solid background in experimental design, field and laboratory-based research is required, including experience with algal culturing, microscopic techniques, photo-physiological measurements, as well as biogeochemical analysis of environmental samples. Experience in advanced analytical techniques is expected, including self-directed use of approaches such as DNA/RNA sequencing, microscopy, photophysiology and environmental chemistry methodologies. Experience in planning and conducting fieldwork in remote environments, including logistical coordination and international collaboration, is also required. A deep understanding of microbial ecology of glacial habitats is essential, along with published work in peer-reviewed journals and experience presenting at both national and international conferences. We want a motivated, inquisitive professional with a genuine commitment to research, given your important role in the research setting. The role involves supervising early-career scientists and participating collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team across several institutions.

The department offers:

• a well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories, and access to shared equipment
• an exciting interdisciplinary environment with many national, international, and industrial collaborators
• a research climate encouraging lively, open, and critical discussion within and across different fields of research
• a work environment with close working relationships, networking, and social activities
• a workplace characterised by professionalism, equality, and a healthy work-life balance.

The place of work will be at Aarhus University, Campus Risø, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark. The city of Roskilde is located 35 km from Copenhagen. The area provides immediate access to a wealth of cultural and recreational pursuits. International candidates may find information concerning living and working in Denmark at https://international.au.dk/about/contact/international-services/ic. AU International Centre offers a full range of services to make your transition to Denmark as smooth as possible.

Applications must be received no later than 8th of July 2026.