The UFZ
The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) is a world-leading institution in environmental research and a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organisation. With approximately 1,200 employees across Leipzig, Halle, and Magdeburg, we have been conducting research since 1991 using a transdisciplinary approach to address the most pressing challenges of our time: biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental pollution. Our goal is to translate excellent research into practical solutions for policymakers, business, and society, and to serve as a reliable partner in supporting transformation processes toward a sustainable and just future for current and future generations. We foster a culture of collaboration, openness, and diversity within a work environment that actively promotes creativity and personal development.
The job
Biofilms play a central role in aquatic ecosystems – they serve as a food source for many organisms, including the pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis, which in turn is an important prey item for other species. But what happens when biofilms are contaminated with mixtures of (genotoxic) pollutants? How do these mixed‑contamination exposures affect the snails? Are the observed effects amplified, or are there antagonistic interactions? Does a trophic transfer of these pollutants occur, and would the subsequent F₁ generation of snails also be impacted?
Your tasks
In this project, which is limited to 9 months (depending on university regulations), you will investigate, among other things, the acute and chronic effects of both direct exposure (via the water phase) and indirect exposure (via contaminated food or biofilm) on Lymnaea stagnalis, with a particular focus on:
- Behaviour: Do the snails show changes in activity, stress responses, or other behavioural parameters?
- Grazing behaviour: Is food intake altered when the snails feed on contaminated biofilm?
- Physiological / Biochemical responses: How strong are the effects on the sub-organismal level?
- Reproduction: Are there impacts on reproductive output or on the development of offspring?
- Sensitivity: How sensitive are L. stagnalis embryos compared with those of other molluscs or invertebrates?
Methods
- Literature review and experimental design
- Laboratory cultivation of L. stagnalis and biofilms
- Exposure experiments using contaminated biofilm or water (single substances and mixtures)
- Additional analyses of biochemical markers and physiological parameters
- Presentation of results in research‑group meetings
We offer
- Excellent supervision that supports your personal and professional development
- Exciting insights into the work of a leading research institute
- The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a wide range of perspectives
- The opportunity to contribute and actively shape your own ideas and impulses right from the start
- Modern technical equipment and IT service to optimally support your work
Your profile
- Enrolled in an M.Sc. program in Biology, Hydrobiology, Environmental Sciences, or a related field
- Strong interest in ecotoxicology, ecology, physiology, biochemistry, or mixture toxicology
- Experience in aquatic ecology or ecotoxicology would be an advantage
Contract limitations
limited contract
Contact
Your contact for any questions you may have about the job:
Eberhard Küster, 0341 6025 1525, eberhard.kuester@ufz.de
Your application
To ensure a fair selection process, please submit your application (cover letter, CV, and relevant supporting documents) via our online portal without a photo, age information, or details about your marital status.
Diversity and Inclusion
The UFZ values diversity and is actively committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their origin, religion, beliefs, disability, age or sexual identity.
We welcome people who represent diverse backgrounds, identities and perspectives. We therefore particularly encourage people who are affected by structural discrimination to apply to us.
Application deadline: 08.12.2027
