Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research (IOW), Warnemünde

Job posting CHE 06/2025

The Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) has an open permanent vacancy

with a percentage of 100% (40 h/week).

The position is initially limited to two years (based on Section 14 (2) of the German Part-Time and Fixed-Term Employment Act (TzBfG)), provided that the legal requirements for this are met. The intention is to make the position permanent after this period. Remuneration is based on TV-L EG 11.

The position can be filled on a part-time basis, but with a minimum of 30 working hours per week.

Who are we?

The IOW is an independent research institute of the Leibniz Association for which equal opportunities, family friendliness and work-life balance are very important. Our research focus is on the coastal and marginal seas, especially the Baltic Sea. The staff of the five sections Physical Oceanography, Marine Chemistry, Biological Oceanography, Marine Geosciences and Marine Observations works interdisciplinary within a joint research programme.

What will be your tasks?

We monitor the ecological status of the Baltic Sea as part of national and international programs. A central component of this work is nutrient analysis and the determination of dissolved oxygen and hydrogen sulphide, which are used to assess changes in the marine environment. To strengthen our team, we are looking for a committed individual to take on the technical management of this area and actively support our environmental research.

As technical manager in the field of nutrient analysis, you will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and monitoring all analysis processes. You will organize the various analyses in close consultation with the specialist and project management teams and prepare measurement for sea voyages in a timely manner. You will also coordinate analytical support for student and apprentice training.

Another focus of your work will be the administration and maintenance of the analysis systems and operating resources used. You will be responsible for the procurement, proper storage, and timely ordering of chemicals and consumables, as well as for the regular maintenance of laboratory equipment and ensuring its reliable use. In addition, you will support other departments with analytical issues and train employees in the use of the equipment.

In the area of the accredited system, you will ensure compliance with the relevant standards through quality management and carry out measurements under accredited conditions. You will regularly perform internal quality controls, participate in international comparative studies (e.g., Quasimeme), and further develop existing methods. The creation and maintenance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) is also part of your area of responsibility.

During ship expeditions at sea lasting several weeks, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining all analytical equipment on board. You will carry out nutrient and oxygen analyses on seawater samples, perform repairs on site as needed, and supervise technical assistants, trainees, and volunteers. Finally, you will evaluate the collected data, maintain existing databases, integrate results from international programs, and prepare the data for internal reporting. In addition, you will be responsible for training new colleagues and supervising students in ongoing laboratory operations.

What do we expect from you?

You have a good to very good degree (diploma, master's) in (technical) chemistry, environmental or earth sciences or equivalent skills and experience, ideally with a focus on nutrient analysis. You have in-depth chemical and scientific expertise and are experienced in using technical testing, measuring, and analysis equipment (constant flow analyser, photometer, titrino, µFTIR).

It would be desirable for you to be familiar with the requirements of quality management and accredited working methods and to have several years of professional experience in the field of environmental analysis. In addition, your portfolio demonstrates a willingness to participate in expeditions lasting several weeks in various sea areas, as well as in-depth knowledge of specialist software for evaluating analysis results and knowledge of a modern programming language (R, Matlab, Python). Good English skills are required. Personally, you are characterized by loyalty, reliability, teamwork, and an independent, careful, and goal-oriented approach to work. You are also willing to engage in continuous professional development.

What does the IOW offer?

The IOW offers you a varied workplace in the immediate vicinity of the Baltic Sea (Work at sea) with flexible working arrangements, e.g. the possibility of working from home or remotely and the opportunity for professional and personal development. A very good infrastructure with modern laboratory and office equipment, including on our own research vessel, form the framework for the best working conditions.

How do we promote equal opportunities ?

Our job offers are aimed at all people regardless of their gender. Research benefits from a diverse working environment, which is why we have signed the Diversity Charter.

IOW aims to specifically promote women in areas where they are underrepresented. For this purpose, the institute has given itself a plan to promote equality (plan for the equal opportunities committee at the IOW) and has repeatedly been awarded the Total E-Quality award for its commitment (website TOTAL E-QUALITY e.V.) Female applicants are given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability, as the position belongs to a working group in which women are underrepresented. You can find an overview of our measures for equal opportunities and for improving the compatibility of work and family on our website.

We give preference to applications from disabled persons with equal professional and personal suitability. Please mention the disability or equality in your letter of application and enclose a copy of the relevant certificate.

How to apply?

Please send us your application documents with cover letter, CV, copies of your certificates, description of relevant activities and experiences as well as references.

We look forward to receiving your application as a PDF file, quoting the

keyword: CHE 06/2025

Human Resources Department

The interviews are expected to take place on 30. September and/or 01. October 2025.

Unfortunately, we cannot cover your application and travel costs.

For further information, please contact:

Prof. Dr. Joanna J. Waniek

Leibniz Institut für Ostseeforschung Warnemünde

stellv. Sektionsleiterin Meereschemie

tel: 0049 381 5197 300