PhD position in Synthetic Ecological Networks

About TU Darmstadt

TU Darmstadt stands for excellent and relevant science. We play a key role in shaping profound global transformation processes – from the energy transition to artificial intelligence – through outstanding findings and forward-looking study programs. Our cutting-edge research is concentrated in three fields: Energy and Environment, Information and Intelligence, and Matter and Materials. As a university firmly rooted in the Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region and with a strong international focus, we are committed to European values ​​and European integration.

About our area

The research in the Ecological Networks working group (headed by Prof. Nico Blüthgen) encompasses interactions between species in different ecosystems and functional groups, their responses to land use and climate change, and various aspects related to biodiversity. The dynamics of temperate and tropical forest ecosystems have emerged as a new focus within this group and will continue to be an important perspective. Highlights include the DFG Research Group “Reassembly” on a regenerating rainforest in Ecuador, the investigation of land-use effects within the DFG Priority Programme Biodiversity Exploratories, and our research on the impacts of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem properties in forests around Darmstadt (together with Dr. Katja Werner and Prof. Michael Heethoff).

The Evolutionary Animal Ecology working group (headed by Prof. Michael Heethoff) deals with topics from the fields of soil ecology, such as the dynamics and functional morphology of predator-prey interactions, the influence of microclimatic changes on soil animal communities, as well as 3D imaging and digitization of arthropods.

The joint research group facilitates a lively exchange between individuals, projects, and across a broad range of methods. In addition to their own areas of focus, the lab’s researchers actively participate in cross-project collaborations. Ecology is a core element of the Bachelor’s program and an elective specialization in the Master’s program in Biology.

Your tasks

The research focus of this position lies in the biodiversity of animal or plant communities in temperate or tropical ecosystems. The working group primarily investigates insects, oribatid mites, and other animal groups in various ecosystems, as well as oribatid mites and other organisms, especially in temperate and tropical forests and grassland systems. Notable collaborative projects include the “Biodiversity Exploratories” infrastructure program in Germany and the “Reassembly” research group in Ecuador. Long-term studies are also conducted in the forest around Darmstadt. Additional species groups are welcome, as is a strengthening of existing research priorities. Potential topics include taxonomic and functional diversity, functional morphological and/or ecophysiological traits, community responses to land use and climate change, and interaction networks (animal/animal or animal/plant interactions).
The successful candidate will be expected to conduct these research activities independently and actively participate in teaching. Active participation in an elective ecological module in the Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, as well as in a basic ecology internship, are among the key teaching responsibilities. Furthermore, participation in field trips, seminars, and lectures, as well as the supervision of theses, is expected. A key focus of the teaching lies in supervising field studies and surveys of species communities. Additionally, guiding students in data collection and analysis, and the statistical analysis of ecological studies, is a required task.

Your profile

A prerequisite is a university degree (Master of Science or Diploma) in biology or related subjects. 

Relevant knowledge in the statistical analysis of complex data and multivariate statistics (in the statistical software “R”), in the recording of biodiversity and ecosystem functions is required, and experience in the coordination of field studies and in the supervision of students is a great advantage.

We offer

The Technical University of Darmstadt offers diverse and challenging tasks, independent work, current technologies, good collegial and cooperative collaboration, needs-based training opportunities and individual personnel development.

We offer you the opportunity to prepare for a doctorate. The employment relationship also serves as academic training.

• Development and design – a comprehensive internal training program as well as opportunities for further qualification and development
• Vacation/Educational Leave – 30 days of vacation per year (for full-time employees) and 5 days of educational leave
• Sustainable and mobile – free travel entitlement in all regional transport in Hesse through the Hesse State Ticket according to the applicable fare regulations, as well as mobile working.
• Fit and healthy – free medical check-ups and a wide range of discounted sports activities
• Work-life balance – flexible working hours; company health management
• Old-age provision – supplementary pension scheme for public service employees (VBL) according to the applicable regulations
• Company bike/bike leasing
• Family-friendliness/Reconciliation of family/care/work – childcare services and payment of a child allowance (according to collective bargaining agreements), holiday programs

General Information / Data Protection

The Technical University of Darmstadt aims to increase the proportion of women on its staff and therefore particularly encourages women to apply. Applicants with a disability rating of at least 50% or those with equivalent status will be given preference if equally qualified. Remuneration is based on the collective agreement for the Technical University of Darmstadt (TV-TU Darmstadt). Part-time employment is generally possible.

By submitting your application, you consent to your data being stored and processed for the purpose of the recruitment process. You can find our privacy policy on our website.

Further information

For any questions regarding this position,  please contact Prof. Dr. Nico Blüthgen  at +49 6151 16-75411.