43,000 students and 8,000 employees in teaching, research and administration, all working together to shape perspectives for the future – that is the University of Münster. Embedded in the vibrant atmosphere of Münster with its high standard of living, the University’s diverse research profile and attractive study programmes draw students and researchers throughout Germany and from around the world.
The research group led by Prof Julia Kurth at the Institute for Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology in the Faculty of Biology at the University of Münster is seeking to fill the position of a
Postdoctoral Research Associate (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in. salary level E 13 TV-L, 100%)
at the earliest possible date. We are offering a fixed-term full-time position for 2 years with the possibility of extension. Full-time employees are required to teach 4 hours per week during the semester. The opportunity for further scientific qualification is given.
Prof Kurth’s research group investigates the metabolism of anaerobic microorganisms, mainly archaea, and combines molecular biology, protein biochemistry, anaerobic cultivation and omics techniques. The postdoc position is not project-bound and therefore enables the postdoc to bring in own ideas in accordance with the group’s research profile. Potential projects could relate to environmental studies of microbial communities in anoxic environments, bioremediation and/or growth studies and enzyme characterization in anaerobic bacteria or archaea.
The successful candidate will become part of the Microbial Physiology Group led by Prof Kurth and based at the University of Münster. You will be offered a wide range of opportunities for creative and innovative work applying state-of-the art methodologies in a variety of scientific disciplines.
Your tasks:
- Collaboration in research and teaching
- Develop and execute own research projects in alignment with Prof Kurth
- Documentation and presentation of results at scientific conferences
- Publication of results in scientific journals
- Support the implementation and coordination of practical courses and seminars
- Providing students with subject- and method-related expertise
- Participation in self-administration
Our expectations:
- A scientific university degree (German Diplom, master's degree or comparable) and a PhD in microbiology, biology or biotechnology or comparable is required.
- Experience with microbiological, analytical and omics methods is expected.
- Experience in bioinformatics and/or protein biochemistry is an advantage.
- Experience in working with anaerobic microbes and/or bioreactors is an advantage.
- Enthusiasm, good communication and teamwork skills, willingness to learn and desire to develop into an independent scientist is essential.
- A good command of English is required and German language skills would be advantageous.
- An independent, structured approach to research work is expected
Advantages for you:
- Appreciation, commitment, openness and respect – these values are important to us.
- Our broad range of diverse work-time models offers great flexibility – even when working from home.
- If you have family members or young children in your care, our Family Service Office offers concrete support to help you balance your private and professional responsibilities.
- As an educational institution, we are deeply committed to offering occupational training and continuing education opportunities tailored to your individual needs.
- From A – Z, Aikido to Zumba, our sport and health programmes ensure a healthy work-life balance.
- As a university employee, you are entitled to numerous benefits afforded to public servants, e.g. an attractive company pension scheme (VBL), an annual end-ofyear bonus and a position that is shielded from economic fluctuations
The University of Münster strongly supports equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome all applicants regardless of sex, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion or worldview, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to creating family-friendly working conditions. Part-time options are generally available.
We actively encourage applications by women. Women with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered unless these are outweighed by reasons which necessitate the selection of another candidate.
If you have any questions, please contact Prof Julia Kurth (Julia.kurth@uni-muenster.de).
Have we sparked your interest? If so, we look forward to receiving your application (cover letter, CV, certificates) in electronic form (PDF file) by 30 April 2025 at:
Universität Münster
Institut für Molekulare Mikrobiologie und Biotechnologie
Prof. Dr. Julia Kurth
Corrensstraße 3, 48149 Münster
Julia.kurth@uni-muenster.de
Reference number: 2025_03_43
