Summary:
Aarhus University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join a collaborative project focusing on the role of glacial and snow algae in the darkening of the Greenland ice sheet. This two-year position offers an exciting opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at the intersection of environmental microbiology, remote sensing, and glaciology. The successful candidate will be responsible for data acquisition related to snow and ice algae diversity, biomass, growth, and photophysiology, contributing to a multidisciplinary effort to understand ice melt mechanisms.
Postdoc Opportunity: Glacial Microbial Ecology & Greenland Ice Sheet Darkening, Aarhus University, Denmark
Designation:
Postdoctoral Researcher in Glacial Microbial Ecology
Research Area:
Environmental Science, Environmental Microbiology, Glacial Microbiology, Cryospheric Systems, Microbial Ecology, Algal Ecology, Biogeochemistry, Remote Sensing.
Location:
Aarhus University, Department of Environmental Science, Campus Risø, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Academic: PhD in Environmental Science, Microbiology, Geography, or a related field.
- Research Experience:
- Solid background in experimental design, field, and laboratory-based research.
- Experience with algal culturing, microscopic techniques, photo-physiological measurements, and biogeochemical analysis of environmental samples.
- Proficiency in advanced analytical techniques such as DNA/RNA sequencing, microscopy, photophysiology, and environmental chemistry methodologies.
- Demonstrated experience in planning and conducting fieldwork in remote environments, including logistical coordination and international collaboration.
- Deep understanding of microbial ecology of glacial habitats.
- A robust record of peer-reviewed publications in international peer-reviewed journals.
- Experience presenting at national and international conferences.
- Experience co-supervising undergraduate or Master’s level students.
- Demonstrated ability, or clear potential, to attract external research funding.
- Proficiency in laboratory-based microbial and analytical techniques.
- Demonstrated collaboration with environmental microbiologists through joint projects and/or publications.
- Personal Attributes:
- Motivated, inquisitive professional with a genuine commitment to research.
- Ability to work collaboratively within interdisciplinary research environments.
- Solid organizational and leadership skills, particularly in field-based research.
- Effective communication skills, including teaching and research dissemination.
- A professional approach to research.
Job Description:
The postdoctoral researcher will be a key player in a collaborative project involving Aarhus University, EPFL, and DTU, aiming to understand the microbiological drivers of Greenland Ice Sheet darkening and their relation to ice melt using remote sensing. The role includes:
- Contributing to and developing research in environmental microbiology within cryospheric systems, with a specific focus on glacial and snow algae.
- Planning and executing fieldwork campaigns on the Greenland ice sheet, including managing logistics and international collaborations.
- Analyzing Arctic microbial communities and their physiological responses to environmental conditions.
- Applying advanced laboratory and analytical techniques to environmental samples.
- Seeking external funding and participating in collaborative research proposals.
- Co-supervising PhD and Master’s students and contributing to teaching activities.
- Participating in departmental activities, including administration and outreach.
- Collaborating closely with postdocs at EPFL to quantify contributions of microbial and abiotic factors to darkening dynamics and disentangle spectral properties of various constituents affecting albedo.
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, accessible through the job advertisement on the Aarhus University website. The application should include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Degree Certificate
- A complete list of publications
- A statement of future research plans and information about research activities
- Teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any)
Last Date to Apply:
Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 23:59 CEST.
