PhD position – Microbial Energy Conversion and Biotechnology

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 Microbial Energy Conversion and Biotechnology research group, headed by Prof. Dr. Jörg Simon, focuses on microbial energy metabolism, particularly the investigation of anaerobic respiration processes related to the formation and consumption of atmospheric greenhouse gases. Further information can be found at:

https://www.bio.tu-darmstadt.de/simon

Your tasks

The project involves the physiological and environmental characterization of selected nitrous oxide-respiring bacteria. The aim is to determine the applicability of such bacteria for reducing nitrous oxide emissions from wastewater treatment plants. Specifically, nitrous oxide-respiring bacteria capable of simultaneously consuming nitrous oxide and oxygen will be investigated. The potential of these bacteria will be tested in microscopic experiments, for example, under conditions realistic to wastewater treatment. Microbiological and biotechnological methods will be employed, including work with bioreactors, microrespirometry, genome sequencing, and genome analysis. Molecular genetic studies with the relevant organisms are also planned.

Appropriate participation in the microbiological teaching of the biology department is planned.

Your profile

The requirement for employment is a completed academic university degree (M.Sc./Diploma) in biology, biochemistry, molecular biotechnology or a comparable course of study.

Extensive theoretical and methodological knowledge in the above-mentioned fields is required, especially in dealing with anaerobically growing microorganisms. 

Interdisciplinary and collaborative cooperation with the Department of Water and Environmental Biotechnology at TU Darmstadt is expected.

Prior knowledge of bioreactor technology and wastewater treatment systems is required.

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. Jörg Simon at +49 6151 16 24680.