PhD Researcher (f/m/x) - In-vitro to in-vivo extrapolations in ecotoxicology
The job
Chemical risk assessment typically involves extrapolation of effects observed in-vitro and in-vivo under laboratory conditions to predictions of effects at the ecosystem level. This is a very challenging task and current extrapolation models have limitations, notably due to a number of ecological processes that are disregarded by the models and the paucity of data for parameterisation and validation. QTOX (www.qtox.eu) will develop mechanistic knowledge and data-efficient modelling tools to bridge the gap between standard toxicity data (typically acute effects of single chemicals) and ecologically relevant endpoints arising from chronic, time variable exposures to chemical mixtures.Place of work
LeipzigWorking time
100% (39h/Woche)Contract limitations
limited contract / 23 + 25 monthsSalary
Remuneration according to the TVöD public-sector up to pay grade first 23 months salary according to given MSCA rates, after that EG 13 including attractive public-sector social security benefits.Contact
Your contact for any questions you may have about the job:
Beate Escher
Phone: (+49) 0341 235 1244
Beate.escher@ufz.de
The UFZ
The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) with its 1,100 employees has gained an excellent reputation as an international competence centre for environmental sciences. We are part of the largest scientific organisation in Germany, the Helmholtz association. Our mission: Our research seeks to find a balance between social development and the long-term protection of our natural resources.
The job
Chemical risk assessment typically involves extrapolation of effects observed in-vitro and in-vivo under laboratory conditions to predictions of effects at the ecosystem level. This is a very challenging task and current extrapolation models have limitations, notably due to a number of ecological processes that are disregarded by the models and the paucity of data for parameterisation and validation. QTOX (www.qtox.eu) will develop mechanistic knowledge and data-efficient modelling tools to bridge the gap between standard toxicity data (typically acute effects of single chemicals) and ecologically relevant endpoints arising from chronic, time variable exposures to chemical mixtures.
Your tasks
- You work on a research project that aims to develop quantitative in-vitro to in-vivo extrapolation methods in ecotoxicology
- You measure mixture effects of triclosan and copper or related organic-metal or organic-organic mixtures in cell assays
- You measure uptake kinetics of single chemicals and mixtures into cell lines and develop toxicokinetic/toxicodynamic model for cells
- You measure specific effects of environmental pollutants, mixtures and samples from mesocosms with high-throughput cellular bioassays
- You present results at international conferences and prepare publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals
We offer
- Excellent supervision and optimal professional and interdisciplinary qualification through our HIGRADE graduate programme
- The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
- The opportunity to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a wide range of perspectives
- Firstclass integration into national and international research networks to work together on global challenges
- Excellent research infrastructure and research data management to optimally support your work
- A wide range of options for balancing care responsibilities and work through our family office
- Competent support and advice for international colleagues arriving at the UFZ from the ‘International Office’
- Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits and subsidised Deutschland-Job-Ticket
- A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity
Your profile
• A Master in environmental sciences, biology, chemistry, bioanalysis, (eco)toxicology, environmental system analysis, geoecology or related areas
• Research experience with in vitro bioassays, toxicology or analytical chemistry
• Skills in IT and modelling with a focus on mixture models
• High degree of organisation and ability to work independently
• Excellent interpersonal and oral/written communication skills (English required, German desirable)
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary team within a European Union HORIZON MSCA action. Applicants can be of any nationality but must comply with the Horizon Europe MSCA eligibility criteria and mobility rules