Leading Scientist in Aquatic Ecosystem Research
Lead a 6-year project on aquatic ecosystem responses to environmental change with a tenure-track opportunity at Helmholtz UFZ.
Best for:Best for established researchers with leadership experience in aquatic ecology, environmental science, or related fields seeking a tenure-track position in a prestigious German research institution.
Overview
This position offers a tenure-track opportunity to lead the 6-year project ‘AquaResponse,’ focused on experimentally analyzing how aquatic ecosystems respond to current and future environmental changes. The Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, one of Germany’s largest scientific organizations, seeks an outstanding leader to direct this interdisciplinary research effort. The role involves overseeing a team, designing experimental approaches, and contributing to long-term scientific advancements in aquatic ecology. Applicants should demonstrate strong leadership, research expertise, and a commitment to environmental science. The position is based at the UFZ in Berlin and offers a permanent contract starting February 1, 2027.
What you'll do
- Lead and direct the 6-year project ‘AquaResponse’ focused on experimental analysis of aquatic ecosystem responses to environmental change.
- Design and oversee experimental approaches to study ecosystem dynamics under current and future environmental conditions.
- Supervise and mentor a research team, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific excellence.
- Develop and implement research strategies to address key questions in aquatic ecology and environmental science.
- Publish findings in high-impact scientific journals and present results at national and international conferences.
- Collaborate with other Helmholtz centres and external partners to advance the project’s objectives.
- Contribute to the strategic development of the Helmholtz Association’s environmental research portfolio.
- Ensure compliance with ethical and scientific standards in all research activities.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Environmental Science, Ecology, Aquatic Biology, or a related field
Language: German and English; fluent written and spoken communication skills required
Instruction: English
Publications: Substantial publication record in top-tier scientific journals
- Proven leadership experience in managing large-scale research projects
- Strong expertise in aquatic ecology, environmental science, or related disciplines
- Experience in designing and conducting experimental research
- Excellent communication and team management skills
- Ability to secure external funding for research initiatives
- Familiarity with interdisciplinary research approaches
- No specific nationality restrictions, but German language proficiency may be required for certain tasks
- No age restrictions, but relevant experience is expected
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-28
Interested applicants should submit their application through the Nature Careers portal. The application should include a detailed CV, a cover letter outlining their qualifications and vision for the project, and a list of relevant publications. Additional documents such as reference letters may also be required.
- CV
- Cover letter
- List of relevant publications
- Reference letters
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