Research Assistant - Marine Biology

The University of Rostock offers a diverse, varied and challenging position in a tradition‑conscious, yet innovative, modern and family‑friendly university in a lively city by the sea.

At the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, Chair of Marine Biology, we are filling the following position as of 01.06.2026 on a temporary basis for the duration of the project "Mito Cycle" ending on 31.05.2029.

• Start date: 01.06.2026
• Working hours: part‑time, 26 hours
• Remuneration: pay group 13 TV‑L
• Location: Rostock
• Tender number: P 185/2025
• Limitation: limited until 31.05.2029
• Final date to receive applications: 28.02.2026

HR department:
Lisa Malke
Phone: 0381/498-1281
E‑mail:

Department:
Prof. Dr. Inna Sokolova
Phone: 0381/498-6050
E‑mail: i

The University of Rostock invites applications for a DFG‑funded PhD position in the interdisciplinary Mito Cycle project, exploring how mitochondrial metabolism adapts to rhythmic environmental changes in marine mussels from tidal (North Sea) and atidal (Baltic Sea) habitats. The project integrates ecophysiology, metabolomics, bioinformatics, and chronobiology to understand how mussels optimize energy metabolism in response to environmental cycles.

• Conduct cutting‑edge, qualification‑oriented research integrating ecological physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology to advance toward the successful completion of a PhD (Promotion).
• Characterise metabolic rhythms in marine mussels from tidal and atidal environments by developing and applying novel experimental and analytical approaches.
• Design experiments to analyse variations in mitochondrial physiology, abundance, and metabolome profiles in response to tidal and diurnal cycles.
• Collect mussels from intertidal and subtidal zones, and maintain them in controlled aquaria for experimental studies.
• Perform mitochondrial analyses and utilise metabolomics tools to identify metabolic profiles and pathways associated with environmental adaptation.
• Collect, process, and analyse data using advanced statistical and bioinformatic tools to ensure data integrity and maintain detailed records.
• Present findings at scientific conferences and contribute to peer‑reviewed journal publications.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams at the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) led by Prof. Kristin Tessmar‑Raible and Dr. Christian Bock to interpret results, refine experimental methods, and share progress in project meetings.
• Co‑mentor and supervise students or research assistants, working closely with Prof. Inna Sokolova.

• Completed academic university degree (state exam, diploma, master’s degree or comparable) in Biology, Physiology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
• Interest in mitochondrial biology, chronobiology, and metabolic adaptation, as well as motivation to learn new methods.
• Physical ability to conduct fieldwork in coastal and intertidal zones, including working on wet and slippery surfaces, in variable weather conditions, and while carrying equipment in the field.
• Strong command of English, both written and spoken (working and publication language).
• Basic knowledge of German or the willingness to acquire it within a short time.
• Excellent organisational and timely work habits, combined with careful documentation and a strong sense of responsibility.
• High motivation and commitment to work independently and focus on a scientific qualification project (PhD).
• Creativity, scientific curiosity, and strong problem‑solving skills, especially in developing original ideas and experiments.
• Strong communication and presentation skills for conferences, meetings, and interactions within an international, interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team, including cooperation in laboratory and field settings and in mentoring students.

Equal opportunities are important to us. We welcome applications from suitable severely disabled people or people from traditionally underrepresented groups. We aim to increase the proportion of women in research and teaching and therefore encourage…