T164-2025 - Research Assistant / PhD Student (all genders) - Diversity and Ecology of Vampire Amoebae (Order Vampyrellida)

TU Darmstadt stands for excellent and relevant science. We are playing a decisive role in shaping far-reaching processes of global change—from energy transition to artificial intelligence—through outstanding scientific knowledge and innovative academic programmes. We group our cutting-edge research into three fields: Energy and Environment, Information and Intelligence, Matter and Materials. We are a university with strong ties to the Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region and a very strong international focus. We are committed to European values and European integration.

The division ‘Biology of Algae and Protozoa’, headed by Professor Dr Sebastian Hess, is interested in the exploration and description of yet unknown species of protists. We use a variety of methods such as the isolation of new protist strains from natural habitats, cultivation experiments, molecular phylogenetics, genomics and various microscopic methods. The division also operates the newly established ‘Unit for Biological Electron Microscopy’ and aims to integrate ultrastructural analyses of protists in various projects. In addition, newly discovered species are often studied experimentally to answer questions in the fields of cell biology and ecophysiology - two further foci of the division. We are located on the campus ‘Botanischer Garten’ and, together with other research laboratories, represent the organismic biology at the TU Darmstadt.

The order Vampyrellida comprises predatory amoebae that feed on other eukaryotes in a highly specialised way and occur in diverse ecosystems (Hess & Suthaus, 2022: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.protis.2021.125854). The aim of the project is the exploration of new vampire amoebae and their description as an essential contribution to the understanding of protist diversity. In addition, questions concerning species definition, trait evolution and ecology of vampire amoebae will be addressed. The tasks in this project include

• Sampling in aquatic and terrestrial habitats
• Microscopic screening of natural samples
• Establishment of cultures by cell isolation
• Morphological analysis of isolated vampire amoebae using light microscopy
• Laboratory experiments on predator-prey interactions
• Molecular work to obtain genetic information (e.g. PCR, genome sequencing)
• Expansion of sequence alignments and phylogenetic analyses
• Organisation and analysis of taxonomic information (incl. German literature of the 19th century)
• Detailed preparation of species descriptions and manuscripts
• Presentation of scientific results at conferences
• Support in the teaching activities of the department and supervision of student work

An excellent university science degree in biology (M.Sc., Diploma) is required, preferably with a thesis in the field of organismic biology (e.g. morphology, systematics). Experience and knowledge in the fields of protozoology, phycology and/or microbiology are advantageous, but not a prerequisite.

We also expect:

• Enthusiasm for biodiversity and natural history
• Passionate and focussed engagement with the project
• High motivation for personal development
• Contribution of own ideas for the development of the project
• Willingness to travel (e.g. sampling trips)
• Very good communication skills in English
• Affinity for scientific literature and scientific writing
• High social skills and willingness to work in a team
• Reliable and precise work

Technical University of Darmstadt offers varied and challenging assignments, freedom to work independently, the latest technologies, good collaboration between colleagues in partnership, needs-based training opportunities and customised personnel development.

Opportunity for further qualification (doctoral dissertation) is given. The fulfillment of the duties likewise enables the scientific qualifications of the candidate.

• Development and organisation – comprehensive in-house training offers, including the opportunity for continuing education and development;
• Annual leave/educational leave – 30 days annual leave (full-time employment) and 5 days educational leave;
• Sustainable and mobile – eligibility to free public transport in the state of Hesse with the LandesTicket Hessen (Hesse StateTicket) in accordance with the currently valid collective agreement, in addition to opportunities to working mobile at times;
• Fit and healthy – free of charge preventive medical check-ups and a wide-ranging subsidised sports programme;
• Work-life balance – flexible working time models, plus BGM (Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement – University Health Management);
• Pension scheme – supplementary public service pension scheme (VBL) in accordance with the currently applicable regulations;
• University bicycle
• Family-friendliness/compatibility of family/care/career – (university-run) childcare services, child allowance (based on the collective agreement), childcare programmes during school holidays.

TU Darmstadt intends to increase the number of female employees and encourages female candidates to apply. In case of equal qualifications, applicants with a degree of disability of at least 50 or equal will be given preference. Remuneration is in accordance with the collective agreement for the Technical University of Darmstadt (TV - TU Darmstadt). Part-time employment is generally possible.

By submitting your application, you agree that your data may be stored and processed for the purpose of filling the vacancy. You can find our privacy policy on our webpage.

If you have any questions about this position, please contact Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Sebastian Heß under  hess@bio.tu-darmstadt.de .