Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Berlin

We invite applications for the position of Technical Assistant in Molecular and Experimental Ecology in the Department of Evolutionary and Integrative Ecology, with a starting date of 01.12.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. In the laboratories of our new building located in Berlin-Dahlem, you will work in an international environment with academic research staff at all levels of experience (students, doctoral candidates, post-docs, lead scientists), to solve pressing environmental problems related to freshwater ecosystems. The laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for molecular biology and genomics. Your work will also include maintenance and care of plankton and invertebrates in a laboratory setting in support of experimental research. You will support multiple projects within the IGB and collaborative projects with other national and international research institutions.

Key responsibilities and duties

• Molecular biological analyses (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, next-generation sequencing)
• Support of laboratory experiments with living plankton and invertebrates
• Laboratory organisation, together with scientists, including ordering of consumables, scheduling of space and equipment
• Training of lab users, including students and doctoral candidates
• Performing duties as safety officer (Sicherheitsbeauftragte*r)

Your profile

Essential:

• Completed training as a biological, chemical or medical-technical assistant or comparable qualification.
• Professional laboratory experience in molecular biology including next-generation sequencing; very good knowledge of German and English; excellent social skills, service orientation and ability to work in a diverse team.

Desirable:

• Experience with environmental samples, eDNA, and non-model organisms; work experience in an international academic research environment; driving license class B or higher.

Our offer

We offer an interesting position in an international and dynamic environment. We foster flat hierarchies and active participation. Salary is paid according to the German salary scheme for the public sector (TVöD Bund), depending on the personal qualifications and the tasks assigned. This is a full-time position.

The position is principally suited for job sharing or part-time work. Although initially a 2-years fixed-term position, we aim at creating a permanent position. Given our commitment to diversity, we welcome all applications, regardless of gender and gender identity, origin, nationality, religion, belief, health and physical disabilities, age or sexual orientation. Various measures are in place at IGB to support gender equality.

We support the reconciliation of work and family life. Applicants with a severe disability will be given preference if they are equally qualified.

Are you interested?

We look forward to receiving your application by 15.09.2025 with a cover letter, CV, certificates, and contact details of references. Please state the job reference number 15/2025 and apply exclusively via our recruitment platform at www.igb-berlin.de/en/jobs. Questions can be directed to Michael Monaghan by e-mail (michael. monaghan@igb-berlin.de).

"Research for the future of our freshwaters" is the mission of IGB – Germany’s largest and one of the leading international centres for freshwater research. In order to investigate different aspects of freshwater ecosystems, their biota and societal relevance, we unit a wide range of disciplines and understand research as a joint effort. With more than 400 employees and guests from all over the world, we conduct research at five locations in Berlin and at Lake Stechlin (Brandenburg). IGB is part of the Leibniz Association and the Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V. www.igb-berlin.de/en