About us

The Pelagic Microbiology research group offers a vibrant and collaborative research environment. We combine cultivation-based and cultivation-independent approaches to investigate microorganisms in aquatic systems. Our integrated framework bridges holistic strategies, such as community-wide shotgun sequencing, with reductionist methods like single-cell genomics, as well as intermediate approaches including cultivated microbial model communities. This integration enables us to explore microbial interactions in depth.

This project aims to advance single-cell genomics to resolve microdiversity and functional roles of microorganisms in complex marine environments. Building on emerging semi-permeable capsule technologies, the project will enable high-throughput, genome-resolved access to individual cells. This will allow the characterization of strain-level diversity and metabolic interdependencies that remain inaccessible through conventional metagenomics. Embedded within the Excellence Cluster Ocean Floor – Earth’s Uncharted Interface, the project will contribute to understanding how microbial processes regulate carbon and elemental fluxes across the pelagic–benthic continuum.

The successful candidate is expected to contribute to innovative research outputs and the development of novel methodologies in single-cell genomics.

Your tasks

• Contribute to the development of a modular pipeline for sequencing single-cell genomes using encapsulation technology
• Generate high-quality genomic data
• Analyze data and lead the preparation of scientific publications
• Contribute to teaching activities at the graduate level

Your profile

Required qualifications:

• Completed academic university degree (Master or Diploma, not from a University of Applied Sciences) in a relevant field
• PhD in a relevant field
• Strong motivation to learn, develop, and take ownership of research projects
• Experience working in an international research environment
• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to give and receive constructive feedback

Desired / Advantageous:

• Experience with encapsulation technology
• Experience with cell sorting
• Experience in genome and/or metagenome analysis

We offer

• Integration into an attractive and dynamic research environment
• Opportunities to contribute to an innovative and collaborative research group
• Opportunities for academic and professional development
• Salary in accordance with collective bargaining agreements (including annual bonus, pension scheme, and capital-forming benefits), as well as 30 days of vacation
• Flexible working hours and the possibility of partial remote work

Our standards

The University of Oldenburg is dedicated to increase the percentage of female employees in the field of science. Therefore, female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. In accordance to § 21 Section 3 NHG, female candidates with equal qualifications will be preferentially considered. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualification.

Contact

We're happy to answer any questions you may have about the position. Please contact Prof. Dr. Sarahi Garcia at sarahi.garcia@uol.de

Please submit your application as a single PDF file (max. 10 MB), including:

1. A cover letter (in English) describing:
   Your expectations and goals for this position
   Your motivation for applying to this project
   Your qualifications and suitability for the role
2. A CV outlining your research experience and publications.
3. Degree certificates and transcripts confirming your qualifications (up to 3 files).

Send your application to Prof. Dr. Sarahi Garcia at sarahi.garcia@uol.de with the subject line: 004 Single Cell Genomics Position – [Your Name].

Interviews will be done online. Unfortunately, travel expenses incurred in connection with the interviews cannot be reimbursed.