For the ERC Synergy Project ‘Archean Park – Relicts of Ancient Cellular Biochemistry in High-CO2 Subsurface Ecosystems ’ (Grant Agreement ID: 101118631) at the earliest possible date. We are offering a fixed-term full-time position for 3 years. This interdisciplinary project will explore metabolism of deep biosphere microbes living at high-CO2 conditions.
Your tasks:
You will work in close collaboration with our partners in the Archean Park Project, the Hinrichs lab at MARUM Bremen, the Probst lab at the University Duisburg-Essen, and the Kallmeyer lab at GFZ Potsdam, and participate in joint meetings and research expeditions to drilling sites. You will study metabolism of different extremophilic bacteria and archaea using modern biochemical and microbiological methods and cultivate novel microbes. You will provide students working on the project with subject-related expertise and instruct on the application of scientific methods.
The successful candidate will become part of the Microbial Physiology Group led by Prof Dr Ivan Berg based at the University of Münster. You will be offered a wide range of opportunities for creative and innovative work applying state-of-the art methodologies in a variety of scientific disciplines.
Our expectations:
* A PhD and a scientific university degree (German Diplom, Master’s Degree or comparable) in microbiology, biochemistry, geomicrobiology, or closely related discipline is required
* Demonstrable knowledge in the field of microbial metabolism
* Experience with basic laboratory techniques, enzyme assays, molecular cloning, and protein biochemistry
* Experience with liquid chromatography and gas chromatography is desirable
* Experience handling bioreactors, extremophilic microorganisms, and anaerobes is an advantage
* A secure knowledge of spoken and written English
* Ability to work in a team, have good communication skills, excellent organizational skills, and an independent working style
* Solid track record of publications in peer-reviewed international journals as appropriate for the career stage
* Excellent time management skills
Advantages for you:
* Work on an exciting, highly interdisciplinary cutting-edge project
* Possibility to become integrated into broader networks within the University of Münster and our partners in the Archean Park Project
* Appreciation, commitment, openness and respect – values which are important to us.
* Broad range of diverse work-time models offers great flexibility – also when working from home.
* If you have family members or young children in your care, our Family Service Office offers concrete support to help you balance your private and professional responsibilities.
* As an educational institution, we are deeply committed to offering occupational training and continuing education opportunities tailored to your individual needs.
* From A – Z, Aikido to Zumba, our sport and health programmes ensure a healthy work-life balance.
* As a university employee, you are entitled to numerous benefits afforded to public servants, e.g. an attractive company pension scheme ( VBL ), an annual end-of-year bonus and a position that is shielded from economic fluctuations.
The University of Münster strongly supports equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome all applicants regardless of sex, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion or worldview, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to creating family-friendly working conditions. Part-time options are generally available.
We actively encourage applications by women. Women with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered unless these are outweighed by reasons which necessitate the selection of another candidate.
For further information or questions, please do not hesitate to contact Professor Ivan Berg via telephone: +49 251 83 39825 or email ivan.berg@uni-muenster.de Are you interested? Then we look forward to receiving your meaningful application in electronic form by 14.06.2026with the usual documents (motivation letter, CV, certificates, contact details of two referees) via email to: Ms Kassidy Yatso (she/her) kassidy.yatso@uni-muenster.de .
* Subject line: [Reference Number] Archean Park ERC AG Berg Postdoc [Your Surname]
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University of Münster
Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology
Prof Dr Ivan Berg
Corrensstraße 3
48149 Münster, Germany
Link:
Link Berg lab: Reference number: 2026_04_29