PhD Student EG TV-AVH - Arbovirus Ecology group

Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM, ) is the largest Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in Germany and member of the Leibniz Research Association, the National Reference Centre for Tropical Pathogens, and a WHO Collaborating Centre.

The Arbovirus Ecology group led by Dr. Renke Lühken at the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) in Hamburg is looking for two highly motivated PhD Students (m/f/d) –
65 % EG 13 TV-AVH
.

Investigate the impact of climatic conditions, competition and insecticides on the development and adult traits (e.g. adult survival, body size) of mosquitoes. Conduct molecular work to identify mosquito species, laboratory and field experiments with living mosquitoes, use stereo microscopes to sort and analyze mosquitoes, employ imaging techniques to collect information on the development of mosquitoes, and perform statistical analysis and publication. Carry out the project within an international team of scientists.

• Completed master’s degree or equivalent in ecology, biology, or a related field
• High interest in entomological work in laboratory and field experiments with living mosquitoes
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork, including the deployment of mosquito traps and regular sample campaigns
• Practical experience with entomological, molecular biological techniques and statistical analysis methods are an advantage
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
• Interest to supervise and train students at the bachelor and master level
• Ability to work independently and creative and to work and communicate in a team

• An interesting and challenging research project with an applied focus
• Integration into an open-minded, collaborative, and highly motivated research team
• A structured PhD training program and opportunities for further education and training
• A chance to participate in national and international conferences
• Flexible and family-friendly working hours
• 30 vacation days per year
• Childcare subsidy
• Subsidy for HVV-Profi Ticket as “Deutschlandticket” (Basic)
• A central location at the Landungsbrücken, easily accessible by public transport
• Company pension scheme

Starting date should be February 1st 2026. The position is initially limited to 36 months and according to the rules of the public service under the TV‑AVH (collective agreement of the “Arbeitsrechtliche Vereinigung Hamburg”).

We support our employees in achieving a work‑life balance and promote the professional equality of women, men and non‑binary people. We strive to assist women in their scientific career, increase the number of women in research and reduce under‑representation in all areas and positions in general. We explicitly welcome applications from people with disabilities.

As a member of the Diversity Charter, the largest diversity management network in Germany, we are also committed to making diversity an integral part of our institute culture. It is our goal to create a working environment that is free of prejudice.

Application:
Please apply by 15.01.2026 preferably via our online form with a motivation letter, CV, high school and university certificates and names and, if available, contact information of references. Alternatively, you can submit your application referring to “PhD Arbovirus Ecology” via postal mail to:
Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, HR Department, Bernhard‑Nocht‑Str. 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany. If you have any questions regarding the application process or the selection procedure, please contact Jeannette Meurer from the HR Department ().

For further questions please contact Dr. Renke Lühken (, phone: +49 40 285380‑862).