Research Associate “Ecology of living marine resources” § 28 Subsection 1 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Biology, Institute of Marine Ecosystem and Fisheries Science

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: as soon as possible, fixed for a period of three years. (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-10-01

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 65 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

Research associates will be expected primarily to teach and conduct research. The research associate will also have the opportunity to pursue further academic qualifications, in particular a doctoral dissertation. At least one-third of set working hours will be made available for the research associate’s own academic work.

The successful candidate will join the Ecology of Marine Resources research group and develop an experimental doctoral project on temperature-dependent hypoxia tolerance across life stages of fishes and, where appropriate, other marine organisms. Possible questions include body-size scaling of critical oxygen thresholds (Pcrit), life-stage-specific sensitivity, and temperature-oxygen interactions. Depending on interests and expertise, the project may span whole-animal physiology, respirometry and behaviour to cellular and biochemical processes such as enzyme function. These are illustrative directions; the project will be refined jointly within this broad framework.

Laboratory experiments will form the core of the work, supported by the Institute's facilities for aquatic animal husbandry and controlled manipulation of environmental conditions. Suitable approaches may include respirometry, behavioural and automated video/image analyses, and biochemical or enzyme-based assays. Field sampling, including vessel-based work, comparative analyses or modelling may complement the experimental programme where scientifically appropriate. The successful candidate will contribute to study design, data analysis and interpretation, present results at international conferences, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. Opportunities for collaboration with other groups at the IMF, the Department of Biology and the Earth and Society Research Hub (ESRAH) are available. Academic duties at the IMF include a teaching commitment of 2.6 hours per week each semester.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

• enthusiasm for experimental research in fish ecophysiology, marine ecology, comparative physiology or a related field, and interest in developing an independent doctoral project within the broad theme of temperature-dependent hypoxia tolerance
• practical experience with laboratory or experimental research is desirable; experience in aquatic animal husbandry, respirometry, behavioural or video analyses, microscopy, biochemical or enzyme-based methods, or field sampling would be an asset; applicants are not expected to cover all of these areas
• a sound foundation in quantitative data analysis and scientific communication in English, together with curiosity, reliability, willingness to learn new methods, and readiness to work flexibly when experimental schedules require it

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements ( and ).

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Flemming Dahlke

Hinnerk Heuer

Location

Große Elbstraße 133
22767 Hamburg

Reference number

236

Application deadline

2026-10-01

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.