Postdoc position: “Molecular biology of Nanoplastic degrading marine microbes”

The Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry (MMB) at NIOZ is seeking an experienced, responsible, and proactive postdoctoral researcher to conduct molecular biological investigations on nanoplastic-degrading microbes in the ocean.

ROYAL NIOZ 

NWO-NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research is the Dutch national oceanographic institute. NIOZ conducts excellent fundamental, and frontier applied marine research. NIOZ includes the National Marine research Facilities (NMF) department that operates several research vessels and the national pool of large seagoing equipment. 

THE DEPARTEMENT 
The MMB Department investigates microbial communities across all marine environments, from estuaries to the deep ocean and from the geological past to the present. Through field and experimental studies combined with analytical, biochemical, and modern genomic techniques, the department examines the diversity, evolution, physiology, and activity of eukaryotes, prokaryotes, and viruses in diverse marine settings.

THE VACANCY

Are you a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher eager to work in an interdisciplinary team on the mlecular biology of nanoplastic degrading microbes? Do you have a background in molecular ecology, and are you excited about joining sea-going expeditions? Apply now to become part of the NanoMare team.

As part of the ERC project NanoMare, the department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry is looking for an enthusiastic and independent postdoctoral researcher. This position focuses specifically on the molecular biology of nanoplastic-degrading microbes in the ocean. The goal is to identify key microbial players and study their gene expression linked to nanoplastic degradation and/or potential toxic effects.

We are looking for an excellent scientist with a PhD in molecular microbial ecology, microbiology, or a related field and a strong publication record. Both experimental and computational experience in analysing microbial diversity and functioning (DNA/RNA-seq) of natural communities and/or laboratory cultures (e.g., enrichments), ideally using long-read sequencing platforms and stable isotope probing, is highly desirable. You should be independent, thrive in an interdisciplinary environment and be open to participating in seagoing expeditions.

 THE PROJECT 
The NanoMare project investigates the sources, fate, and microbial degradation of nanoplastics (<1 µm) in the ocean. Recent advances by our team have enabled the detection and quantification of nanoplastics and demonstrated that marine microbes can degrade nanoplastics. Building on these breakthroughs, NanoMare will combine ocean-going expeditions with newly developed in situ and high-pressure incubation techniques to study nanoplastic inventories as well as microbe-nanopalstic interactions from coastal to open ocean settings and surface waters to the deep sea. Several postdoctoral researchers and PhD candidates collaborate across disciplines to characterize degradation pathways, identify responsible microorganisms, and assess ecosystem impacts. The project aims to deliver fundamental insights into the global distribution, degradation kinetics, and ecological consequences of nanoplastics.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

• Curious, independent and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, or a related field 

• 2 or more years of postdoctoral research experience

• Background in both experimental and computational workflows for analysing microbial diversity and functioning (DNA/RNA-seq) of natural communities and/or laboratory cultures (e.g., enrichments)

• Background using long-read sequencing platforms and stable isotope probing 

• Open to participating in sea-going expeditions

• Adequate social/verbal/communication skills

• Excellent track record and presentation skills

NIOZ is a transparent institute with a healthy working climate and an inclusive culture, where people from diverse backgrounds and gender bring their talents and further develop these talents. We aim for inclusive decision-making processes and expect our leadership to show visible commitment, awareness of bias, and cultural intelligence.

CONDITIONS 

• Employment of this full-time position at Royal NIOZ is by NWO-I for a duration of 1 years, with the option to extend the contract to a maximum of 4 years.

• Salary compliant with CAO-WVOI  (Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Research Institutes) scale 10 or 11 depending on relevant experience.

• The freedom to fulfill your role and space and opportunities for your personal (talent) development with the help of the NIOZ Academy.

• 338 annualized holiday hours for a full-time 40-hour work week.

• Pension scheme via ABP, 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.33%.

• 2nd class public transportation travel is reimbursed 100%.

• Employment benefits plan to exchange a portion of your salary for days off or vice versa, or can be used to purchase a bicycle with tax benefits.

• We offer relocation expenses for employees coming from abroad and support with finding accommodation.

MORE INFORMATION 
For additional information about this vacancy, please contact prof. Helge Niemann. for information about the hiring procedure working@nioz.nl  

Closing date for this vacancy is 16 November 2025