PhD Position in Insect Navigation Biology, University of Oldenburg, Germany

Summary

The Institute for Biology and Environmental Sciences at the University of Oldenburg invites applications for a 3-year PhD position in Insect Navigation Biology within the NaviSense Cluster of Excellence. Starting on February 1, 2027, the position offers 65% E13 TV-L remuneration. The successful candidate will investigate the navigational abilities and sensory mechanisms of migratory Australian Bogong moths using behavioral experiments and neuronal techniques in close collaboration with Lund University. Responsibilities include conducting field and laboratory research, participating in field trips to Australia, publishing results, presenting at conferences, and assisting with undergraduate and graduate teaching. Applicants must hold a Master's degree in biology, ecology, or a related discipline, with relevant research experience in insect navigation. Applications are accepted until November 15, 2026.

Key Facts

Employer	University of Oldenburg
Department	Institut für Biologie und Umweltwissenschaften (IBU) (Fakultät V – Mathematik und Naturwissenschaften)
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Biology
Research Area	Insect Navigation Biology
Degree Required	Master degree or equivalent in biology, ecology or a related field
Experience	Experience conducting behavioral experiments on nocturnal insects, field research, and tracking migratory insects
Salary	E13 TV-L (65%)
Funding	Salary (TV-L E13, 65%)
Contract Duration	3 years
Language	English
Deadline	2026-11-15
Required Documents	1-page cover letter, CV, Certificates
Employer Contact	Prof. Dr. Basil el Jundi
Employer Address	Ammerländer Heerstraße 114–118, 26129, Lower Saxony

About the Project

This PhD research project forms part of the NaviSense Cluster of Excellence at the University of Oldenburg. In collaboration with the Lund Vision Group at Lund University, the project aims to uncover the navigation skills, sensory foundations, and migratory behavior of Australian Bogong moths through laboratory experiments, neuronal techniques, and field studies in Australia.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects in the field and laboratory
• Organize and participate in multiple field research trips to Australia
• Publish research results in scientific journals
• Present research findings at national and international conferences
• Participate in teaching modules for Bachelor's programs in Environmental Sciences and Biology, as well as Master's programs in Landscape Ecology

Required Skills

• Completed Master's or university diploma in biology, ecology, or a related field
• Master's thesis or equivalent focused on insect navigation, ideally migratory insects
• Experience in conducting behavioral experiments on nocturnal insects
• Experience participating in field research trips and conducting field experiments
• Expertise in tracking migratory insects using methods such as telemetry tracking
• Very good written and spoken English skills

Who Should Apply

Candidates holding a Master's or university diploma in biology, ecology, or a related field with a thesis focused on insect navigation should apply. Applicants should have proven experience in conducting behavioral experiments on nocturnal insects, field research trips, and tracking migratory insects using methods like telemetry tracking, along with excellent written and spoken English skills.

Benefits

• Active scientific membership in the NaviSense Cluster of Excellence
• Friendly, helpful, and productive working group in a highly cooperative research environment
• Further collaboration opportunities with researchers from SFB 1372 (Magnetoreception and Navigation in Vertebrates)
• Excellent opportunities to build and expand an international professional network

About the Employer

The University of Oldenburg hosts the interdisciplinary NaviSense Cluster of Excellence, studying the sensory foundations, mechanisms, and effects of animal navigation in collaboration with international partner institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is November 15, 2026.

What is the employment start date and duration?

The position begins on February 1, 2027, and is fixed-term for 3 years.

What are the required application documents?

Applicants must submit a 1-page motivation letter, a CV, and certificates combined into a single PDF document.

Is travel involved in this role?

Yes, the role requires organizing and participating in multiple field research trips to Australia.