Postdoctoral Position– Microbial ecology–Environmental microbiology

The Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IMIC CAS) is the largest research institution in the Czech Republic dedicated to the comprehensive study of microorganisms and their applications in medicine, biotechnology, industry, and environmental sciences. Founded in 1962, the institute brings together approximately 700 employees working in 25 laboratories on more than 160 national and international research projects.

IMIC CAS conducts interdisciplinary research spanning microbiology, molecular biology, immunology, microbial genetics, environmental biotechnology, soil ecology, ecotoxicology, algal biology, and host–pathogen interactions. Its scientists investigate the fundamental biology of microorganisms while translating discoveries into practical applications, including the development of new therapeutics, vaccines, antimicrobial strategies, and biotechnological processes with societal and industrial impact.

The institute operates state-of-the-art research facilities at its main campus in Prague and additional specialized centers, including the Algatech Centre in Třeboň, the Gnotobiology Laboratory in Nový Hrádek, and research groups within the BIOCEV Centre near Prague. IMIC CAS actively collaborates with universities, research organizations, healthcare institutions, and industrial partners worldwide, contributing to international scientific projects and technology transfer.

With a long tradition of scientific excellence established by its founder Professor Ivan Málek, IMIC CAS has made numerous internationally recognized contributions to microbiology, immunology, antibiotic research, and biotechnology. Today, the institute remains at the forefront of fundamental and applied life science research, advancing knowledge that supports human health, sustainable technologies, and environmental protection.

Postdoctoral Position– Microbial ecology–Environmental microbiology

We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team at the ALGATECH Centre, Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IMIC). The successful candidate will work on a project investigating how bacteria contributes to the carbon cycle from a multidisciplinary approach. This is a full-time position (100% FTE) with a duration of two years.

Who are we?

The ALGATECH Centre is a branch of the Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IMIC), located in Třeboň. Situated beside the scenic Svět pond, we focus on research into phototrophic organisms. Our centre hosts several internationally recognised research groups, a high proportion of international researchers, and offers a friendly, collegial working environment with English as the primary language.

Role and Responsibilities:

• Integrate ecological and meta-omics approaches to understand the role of bacteria the carbon cycle
• Conduct environmental sampling in freshwater lakes, ponds and reservoirs
• Conduct laboratory experiments assessing microbial respiration
• Analyse abundances of phototrophic organisms using epifluorescence microscopy
• Learn to prepare samples for mass spectrometry analysis, metagenomics and metatranscriptomics
• Assess diversity and community dynamics of phototrophic organisms
• Study the impact of eutrophication in the bacterial community
• Collaborate with the international project teams for data analysis and publication of results

Requirements:

• PhD in ecology, limnology, microbiology, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of microbial ecology and bioinformatics
• Experience with laboratory culture, microscopy, and aquatic experiments
• Ability to plan and execute controlled lab experiments
• Familiarity with data analysis and scientific writing
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Diligent and independent scientific criteria

We Offer:

• Work in a stimulating environment and an outstanding scientific institution in an international project that involves laboratories in Poland, Czechia, Germany and others
• 6 weeks of vacation
• Opportunities for professional development and language courses
• Starting salary equivalent to 55,000 Kč Gross (1 FTE)
• Attendance to international conferences
• Social funds and pension insurance

How to apply

• Please submit your structured CV including list of publications, motivation letter and contacts of two referees via e-mail
• Interviews with selected applicants will be held in late June 2026.
• Please submit your application to email: [email protected] and make sure to include this identification code: Postdoc.7.2026.MBU, as it is essential for processing your application.