Post-Doctoral Research Position

The Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology is a research institute of the Max Planck Society. It was founded in 1992 in the State of Bremen and employs around 200 staff members. In close collaboration with numerous university and non-university research institutions, we explore the diversity and function of microorganisms in the ocean and their interactions with their environment. Scientists from all over the world, engineers, technicians, and administrative staff together make an important contribution to global marine and environmental research.

The Biogeochemistry Department is offering a

Post-Doctoral Research Position

Investigating Coral Resilience through Multiscale Approaches

The Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology (MPI-MM) is offering an exciting opportunity for a motivated and talented individual to join our interdisciplinary team as a post-doctoral researcher. This position is in close collaboration with Aarhus University and Uppsala University and part of the Novo-Nordisk funded synergy project entitled "Multiscale approach to investigate coral resilience – from single cells to ecosystems." As a post-doc, your primary tasks will be to explore complex chemical microenvironments of reef-building corals and investigate the role of ciliary flows for coral resilience. Coral reef systems are vital and highly biodiverse ecosystems that support a wide array of marine life. They provide numerous ecosystem services, including coastal protection, fishery, and tourism. Anthropogenic disturbances including climate change and pollution are now exposing coral reefs to unprecedented challenges, yet our understanding on how corals cope with these external stressors remains limited. Recent studies by our groups indicate that microscale flows induced by cilia – hair-like structures found on the surface of corals – could play a key role in their ability to mitigate the effects of external stress. In this project, we aim to apply a recently developed method (“sensPIV”) to simultaneously visualize oxygen (O2) and ciliary-induced flow on reef-building corals under varying stress regimes. As a post-doctoral researcher your primary responsibility will be to apply sensPIV to investigate how stress affects corals across spatial scales – from individual Symbiondiniacae cells within microfluidic devices to entire coral colonies in turbulent flow. The project will primarily be based at the MPI-MM in Bremen, providing access to world-class research facilities and a vibrant scientific community. Here you are expected to work closely together with Soeren Ahmerkamp, an expert in the development of optical instrumentation and numerical simulations. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with Klaus Koren (Aarhus University) and Lars Behrendt (Uppsala University) as part of the synergy project.

What we expect from you :

• A Ph.D. degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, chemistry, environmental science, biophysics)
• Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary research and a keen interest in coral reef ecosystems
• Background in handling reef-building corals and their symbionts or mathematical modelling is considered an asset
• Proficiency in experimental design, numerical data analysis, and scientific communication
• Experience in attending and organizing field trips
• Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills

What we offer :

The position is offered for two years with the possibility of extension based on availability of funding. The salary will be according to the German system for public employees. You will have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, a vibrant scientific community, and ample opportunities for professional development and networking. The Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology is an equal opportunity employer.

The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more disabled individuals and especially encourages them to apply. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality.

Are you interested?

We encourage candidates to reach out to us for further information on the project prior to submitting their applications. We believe that open communication and dialogue can help interested individuals gain a deeper understanding of the project and ensure the best fit for both the candidate and our research team.

We are looking forward to your application!