Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT), Bremen

The Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) GmbH (www.leibniz-zmt.de) is an independent research and teaching institute that provides scientific knowledge for the protection and sustainable use of tropical coastal ecosystems. To this end, we work in an inter- and transdisciplinary manner with our partners in the tropics. The ZMT is a member of the Leibniz Association.

Description of the project:

The biggest disadvantage of conventional vegetative propagation of algae is the impoverishment of the gene pool, which can lead to total failure in the event of minor environmental changes. The aim of the project is therefore to develop a modular cultivation system for macroalgae that, for the first time, enables targeted control of sexual reproduction under controlled environmental conditions. This includes both the technical implementation of dynamically regulatable biotopes with marine characteristics and the biological validation of the sexual phases through defined trigger points (e.g., light, temperature, salinity, current). One focus is on the transferability of the system to various macroalgae species with economic or ecological relevance. The core objective of the development is a microprocessor-controlled, cloud-based automation unit that can be freely configured and parameterized. In addition, bio-inspired surfaces and carrier structures are to be developed that promote the targeted attachment of macroalgae spores and zygotes in order to enable a controlled generation sequence and stable establishment of new algae populations.

In the frame of the Project "REKUMAQ”, the Working Group Experimental Aquaculture at ZMT has a vacancy for a (subject to release of funds)

Marine Scientist (gn)

(Reference: 32-REKUMAQ)

Your tasks:

• Keeping/caring for aquarium plants/animals
• Planning of scientific experiments
• Execution of scientific experiments in the field/MAREE
• Preparation of protocols, reports, graphs (incl. statistics)
• Analyses in the Laboratory

Requirements:

• Applicants should hold a MSc degree in aquaculture, marine biology, ecology or related fields and should ideally have demonstrated experience in aquaculture and/or marine aquaristics and physiology.
• Particular focus is on seaweed handling, data processing and communication with project partners.
• They should also fluently speak English and German and possess good scientific writing skills.
• Prior experience working abroad in difficult field conditions is preferred.

Further information:

For questions, please contact Dr. Andreas Kunzmann, email: andreas.kunzmann(at)leibniz-zmt.de

Details of position:

Salary will be paid according to the German TV-L (EG 13). The position is available for part-time (50 % of a full-time position) employment starting as soon as possible with a duration until 31^st March 2028. The fixed term is for academic qualification according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG (Wissen-schaftszeitvertragsgesetz). Accordingly, only applicants who still have the relevant qualification periods according to § 2 (1) WissZeitVG can be considered. The position is intended to provide further academic qualification.

ZMT is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants with a migration background are welcome. Persons with severe disabilities are given special consideration if they have the same professional and personal qualifications. The ZMT values its diverse workforce and pursues the goal of providing equal opportunity, which incorporates gender neutrality (gn). We will be happy to accept your documents without a photo.

We offer:

• A challenging and varied job in an international, dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment
• A motivated and committed team from different countries and cultures
• An open and cooperative working atmosphere
• Opportunities for personal and professional development
• Interesting, varied and challenging tasks and family-friendly working conditions
• Company pension plan (VBL)
• Company health promotion and the opportunity to participate in company fitness with EGYM Wellpass

Submission of application:

Please submit your complete application documents (cover letter, resume, references, job references, certificates and attestations), a reference letter and a letter of motivation by 15.01.2026 as a single pdf file with the reference number "32-REKUMAQ” to Ms. Lena de Carné-Oehlmann, email: bewerbung(at)leibniz-zmt.de.

Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research, Fahrenheitstraße 6, D-28359 Bremen.