Research Associate for the Project “Relevance of biocrusts for carbon pools and dynamics in dryland soils in Southern Africa” CLICCS II # M3 § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Earth System Sciences

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.10.2026, fixed until 30.09.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-08-18

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 65 % of standard work hours per week

The Cluster of Excellence “Climate, Climatic Change, and Society” (CLICCS) investigates climate dynamics and climate-related social dynamics, as well as the interactions between the two. To this end, we are looking for colleagues from a wide range of disciplines, including the natural sciences as well as the social sciences. We are proud to work together in a truly integrating manner. Our partners, e.g. the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology, Helmholtz Centre Hereon or the German Climate Computing Centre are also hiring. All jobs:

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications. They may also pursue doctoral studies outside of working duties.

Doctoral candidates are members of the structured doctoral program of the School of Integrated Climate and Earth System Sciences (SICSS), which provides high-quality, interdisciplinary, and internationally oriented training.

The doctoral researcher will be member of the labs of Soil protection and Geobiology and will

• investigate carbon budgets and dynamics in dryland soil in Southern Africa
• conducting a field survey on C-pools of biocrusts in Southern Africa
• design and conduct soil incubation experiments with biocrusts on carbon turnover and water availability using lipid biomarker and stable isotope approaches
• write and publish scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals
• present results at national and international conferences

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field

We welcome applications from candidates who completed a research-oriented Master’s degree in Geosciences, Geology, Soil Science, Biology or a closely related field; the degree must be completed by the start date. Strong skills in investigating soil carbon pools and fluxes, and/or other environments affected by biological activity are a plus. Experience with organic and isotope geochemistry, soil incubation experiments, and/or gas flux measurements are expected. Experience with or the willingness for conducting field research under challenging conditions in Namibia is required. This Ph.D. position is part of a collaborative project within the Cluster of Excellence CLICCS II, therefore, a strong dedication to scientific inquiry, reliability, and the ability to collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams as well as being proactive are a must. Excellent German and/or English communication skills (spoken and written) are required with the ability to communicate effectively within an international research environment.

A driver's license and driving experience are required.

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements ( and ).

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Annette Eschenbach

Prof. Dr. Jörn Peckmann

Location

Bundesstraße 55
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

216

Application deadline

2026-08-18

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)
• university transcripts

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.