Postdoc on microbial oxygen production in marine oxygen minimum zones

The Department of Biology at the University of Southern Denmark invites applications for a position as postdoctoral researcher in aquatic microbial ecology and biogeochemistry, available for 2.5 years from January 2026, with possibility for extension. The position is associated to the ERC Synergy project RECLESS (Recycling versus loss in the marine nitrogen cycle: controls, feedbacks, and the impact of expanding low oxygen regions). RECLESS aims to predict how ongoing ocean deoxygenation impacts microbial nitrogen transformations and thereby the future availability of nitrogen to support oceanic primary production and carbon sequestration. The project involves researchers from the universities of Southern Denmark, Vienna, and Gothenburg, as well as Carnegie Science, and synergistically integrates innovative oceanographic, biogeochemical, ecophysiological, and model-based investigations.

The main research objective is the exploration and quantification of non-photosynthetic sources of oxygen in oxygen-depleted waters, so called dark oxygen production. Processes of this type were recently discovered in microbial cultures and could be important for microbial communities and element cycling in natural systems. However, the occurrence and significance of dark oxygen production in natural systems remain unknown.

A key task for the successful candidate is to develop and employ experimental techniques for the detection and quantification of dark oxygen production in marine oxygen minimum zone waters. Technical approaches include experimental incubations of water samples, high-sensitivity oxygen sensing, and, as a central component, oxygen stable isotope tracing and isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Participation in international oceanographic research cruises is an integral part of the position. The successful candidate will contribute actively to shaping the project. We further invite the candidate to suggest potential side projects depending on their specific interests.

We seek a candidate with a background in experimental (bio-)geochemistry, microbial ecology, or related fields, and with experience in field work. Experience with one or more of the above-mentioned techniques is desirable. The selected candidate will be associated to the research groups of Bo Thamdrup and Beate Kraft as part of the diverse and international Nordcee group at the department and will work closely together with associates from all RECLESS institutions.

About Sdu

The University of Southern Denmark is Denmark’s third largest university with campuses across the country. As part of the Faculty of Science, the Department of Biology is located in Odense, the University’s largest campus. Odense is the country’s third largest city and is centrally located with easy commutes to Copenhagen and Aarhus (approximately 1½ hour).

Living and working in Denmark

Foreign applicants will be offered Danish language training as part of the employment. International Staff Office (ISO) at SDU provides a variety of services for new employees, guests and people who consider applying for a job at the University of Southern Denmark. Among other things, the staff answers questions concerning salary, taxation, housing and accompanying family. Additional information about working in Denmark can be found at Work in Denmark.

Contact persons for further information: Bo Thamdrup, bot@biology.sdu.dk or Beate Kraft, bkraft@biology.sdu.dk.

Application, salary etc.
The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary (only available in Danish) and  taxation.

Applications will be assessed by an expert committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university. Applications must be submitted in English.

Your application must include the following:

• Detailed Curriculum Vitae
• Certificates/Diplomas (MSc and PhD) - English or Danish
• Brief research profile with description of research interests, relevant experience, competences etc.
• Teaching Portfolio stating any teaching experience.
• List of publications
• Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. 
• Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated.

To qualify you must have passed a PhD or equivalent. Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply now". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF format. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.