Research Assistant in fish reproductive biology and spawning habitat modelling - DTU Aqua

We are looking for a Research Assistant to join our team. The position offers an opportunity for you to work at the intersection among fish reproductive ecology, biophysical modelling and ecosystem management. In this context, DTU Aqua offers a 14-months Research Assistant position to contribute to research projects related to fish stock dynamics, fisheries and climate impacts. 

Responsibilities and qualifications
As our Research Assistant you will contribute to two research projects, MAKE-IT and EFISH, which focus on fish stock reproductive potential and spatial-temporal modelling of targeted species. Here, laboratory tasks involve histological techniques and fecundity analyses related to egg production models including digitization tools for precise visualization, analyses and documentation. Alongside, modelling contributions are anticipated to define spawning habitats based on fish reproductive parameters and egg abundance. This involves habitat mapping and the application of coupled hydrodynamic and ecological models to support fish stock assessment and fisheries management. Tasks will be performed in close collaboration with the project teams and relevant Expert Groups in the International Council of the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). 

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Histological and image analysis for determination of fish reproductive parameters, including fecundity and spawning fraction (autodiametric method and possibly stereology).
• Data analysis, modelling and integration of data into digital maps for overviewing fish distribution, spawning habitats and processes impacting habitat quality.
• Map and model spatial and temporal variability in fish reproductive performance and egg production considering hydrographic conditions (climate impacts).
• Work with project participants and relevant ICES expert groups on data acquisition, quality assurance, and evaluation of the developed models and tools.
• Summarize scientific results for evaluation of stock dynamics, fisheries and climate impacts on spawning habitat quality, and utilization in spatial fisheries management.

As a formal qualification, you must have a master’s degree in engineering or equivalent. 

Our working language is English, but basic skills in Danish is an asset. 

We consider the following skills as prerequisite to perform the job: 

• Knowledge about marine biology considering fish ecology and anthropogenic impacts (incl. climate).
• Expertise in fish ontogeny, histological methodology and fecundity assessment. 
• Insights into the application of mapping tools to identify habitats and habitat quality. 
• Proficiency in data processing and analysis with statistical and modelling software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R) for handling large datasets.
• Proficiency in oral and written English communication.

If you have complementing competences, these will be regarded as an advantage, for example:

• Acquaintance with data collection in marine environments, particularly relevant existing research surveys.
• Experience working with ICES expert groups and databases.
• Ability to work independently as well as to integrate into multidisciplinary teams. 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. 

The period of employment is 14 months with starting date according to mutual agreement. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Jonna Tomkiewicz, Coordinator Fish Biology Research group, jt@aqua.dtu.dk, or Carsten Hvingel, Head of Section Marine Living Resources, carhv@aqua.dtu.dk, National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark. 

You can read more about DTU Aqua at www.aqua.dtu.dk 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 3 September 2025 (23:59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV 
• Academic Diplomas (MSc)

The CV must include a detailed description of competences and previous academic experience.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

About DTU Aqua
DTU Aqua – National Institute of Aquatic Resources – works for well-functioning oceans, rivers, and lakes where biodiversity can thrive. Our research, advisory service, and education contribute to the development of a sustainable blue bioeconomy, robust aquatic ecosystems, and reduced effects of climate change. We have a large national and international network and cooperate with research partners, public authorities, industry, and NGOs. We have state-of-the-art research facilities and Denmark’s only ocean- and arctic-going research vessel. The Institute has 360 employees, one-half being scientific staff, including about 50 PhD students. More than 35 nationalities are represented at the Institute, and we support an equal gender distribution. We are located in Lyngby, Hirtshals, Nykøbing Mors, and Silkeborg and have regular activities in Greenland. Learn more at aqua.dtu.dk

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.