Doctoral position (m/f/d) on Microfluidic on-site qPCR for RNA analysis of trees

The CRC 1537 - ECOSENSE invites applications for a doctoral researcher (m/f/d) position at the Laboratory for MEMS Applications Doctoral position (m/f/d) on Microfluidic on-site qPCR for RNA analysis of trees

• Bewerbungsfrist: 15. Mai 2026
• Veröffentlichungsdatum: 8. April 2026
• Eintrittstermin: 1. Juli 2026
• Arbeitsumfang: Fulltime position
• Kennziffer: 00004915

Beschreibung

Who we are:

In ECOSENSE we explore new ways to quantify ecosystem processes and stress impact of climate change by developing novel sensor principles and measurement methods (https://uni-freiburg.de/ecosense/). We established a comprehensive infrastructure and sensor network in a nearby forest including three canopy access towers.

For our second phase starting this July we are seeking 15 doctoral from environmental and engineering sciences. ECOSENSE offers highly interdisciplinary research and training in a cooperative and vivid working environment.

Project B4 develops microfluidic systems for on-site qPCR to quantify tree and phyllosphere gene expression, aiming to identify stress-responsive markers in adult forest trees. The Laboratory for MEMS Applications specializes in the design, integration, and experimental validation of microfluidic cartridges for automated nucleic acid analysis. In close collaboration with the Chair of Forest Genetics, we develop technologies that translate complex molecular diagnostics into robust, field-capable sensor systems for the ECOSENSE forest infrastructure.

Your Task:

Within ECOSENSE you will develop the technical concept for on-site qPCR monitoring, including the design, simulation, and manufacturing of microfluidic cartridges. You will experimentally evaluate these systems in the laboratory and transfer the setup to the ECOSENSE forest to ensure operation under variable field conditions. Your research will focus on optimizing cartridge design for robustness, reagent integration, and minimal user intervention to enable reliable RNA extraction and amplification from environmental samples. You will work on hardware and software architectures that allow for autonomous sensing throughout a growing season. Finally, you will contribute to data analysis and help identify spatio-temporal stress hotspots based on the molecular data generated.

Your qualifications and contributions to ECOSENSE:

·    You hold a Master's degree in Microsystems Engineering, Bioengineering, Physics, or a related field.

·    Skills in CAD design or experimental evaluation of biochemical measurements.

·   Experience in microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip technologies, or the automation of biological workflows.

·    Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) or data analysis is a plus.

·    Excellent English skills

·  Great enthusiasm for working in a large interdisciplinary project and interest in collaborative research

·    Drivers license is a plus

What we offer

·     An exciting interdisciplinary topic with a high socio-ecological impact

·     A salary according to TV-L E13 (100 %)

·    Contracts will initially run for three years with an option of extension until the end of the CRC’s second phase, which will be June 2030.

·     Modern laboratory equipment and a highly qualified, multicultural team, which will cooperate with you and support you along your professional growth.

The work on your dissertation will be strengthened by the CRC’s own integrated Research Training Group (RTG) providing a tailored qualification program for all our doctoral candidates. Within this RTG all early career researchers will form a tight group of scientists being connected across the borders of disciplines fostering a constant and mutual exchange.

The funding of the here advertised position is still subject to the DFG’s final approval for a second phase by midst of May 2026.

Please send/upload all documents (letter of application, CV, credentials) under the submission portal of the University of Freiburg. The deadline for applications is the 15.05.26.

For any questions regarding the position, please contact Jacob Hess (Jacob.Hess@Hahn-Schickard.de)

The position is initially a 3-year fixed-term contract with the possibility of extension until June 30, 2030. The salary will be determined in accordance with 13 TV-L.

We will be particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position advertised here.

Bewerbung

Please send your application in English including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00004915, by 15. Mai 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

Please upload your application document to the application portal of the University of Freiburg

For further information, please contact Dr. Jacob Friedrich Hess on the phone number +49 761 203 73247 or E-Mail jacob.hess@imtek.uni-freiburg.de.