Doctoral Researcher at University of Oldenburg, Germany | Biology Candidates, Apply Now

Investigate whether illuminated streets become barriers for nocturnal insects in this Doctoral Researcher Oldenburg opportunity. The University of Oldenburg role focuses on how streetlights affect moth flight behaviour, mating success and habitat connectivity. The position combines large-scale field experiments with tracking technologies within the ERC-funded LIGHTSTAR project.

  • School: Mathematics and Natural Sciences

  • Research Group: Entomology

  • Location: Oldenburg, Germany

  • Project: ERC Starting Grant LIGHTSTAR

  • Contract Duration: Four years

About The University

The University of Oldenburg is a young, research-focused university in north-west Germany, with a vibrant, sustainability-oriented campus.

Its Entomology Research Group investigates the mechanisms behind insect orientation and navigation, particularly in nocturnal insects. The team combines laboratory and field behavioural experiments with tracking technologies to study the effects of artificial light at night.

Doctoral Researcher Oldenburg: Project Overview

The Doctoral Researcher Oldenburg project, LIGHTSTAR, explores how light pollution disrupts moth orientation and changes habitat connectivity. This vacancy is one of two PhD positions within the project and focuses on habitat fragmentation.

The researcher will investigate:

  • How streetlights influence moth flight behaviour and mating success.

  • Whether illuminated streets act as barriers to movement.

  • How the moon, as a celestial cue, affects orientation.

  • How moth behaviour varies along a light-pollution gradient.

The two PhD researchers will collaborate closely on field experiments involving free-flying moths.

Doctoral Researcher Oldenburg: Key Responsibilities

  • Design, plan and conduct field experiments with free-flying moths.

  • Analyse behavioural and environmental data.

  • Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

  • Present research at national and international conferences.

  • Contribute to teaching in BSc Environmental Sciences, BSc Biology and MSc Landscape Ecology.

Essential Qualifications

Applicants must have:

  • A completed MSc or equivalent qualification in Biology or a related discipline.

  • Experience conducting field experiments.

  • The ability to work independently and collaboratively.

  • Very good written and spoken English.

Preferred Experience and Interests

The following would strengthen an application:

  • A background in behavioural biology or animal orientation and navigation.

  • Experience with night-time field experiments.

  • Interest in developing and troubleshooting experimental setups and tracking equipment.

  • Experience analysing large datasets, particularly animal movement trajectories.

  • Knowledge of R for behavioural data analysis.

  • A valid driving licence.

Employment and Benefits

The position is offered for four years at 65% working hours, with remuneration according to E13 TV-L.

The university highlights:

  • A supportive international research group.

  • Specialised laboratory and field infrastructure.

  • 30 days of vacation.

  • Company pension and further education opportunities.

  • Flexible working hours and remote-working options.

  • Childcare support and a certified family-friendly environment.

  • Access to the university sports centre.

Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants with disabilities receive preference where qualifications are equal.

Additional Information

  • Pay Grade: E13 TV-L

  • Start Date: 1 April 2027

  • Application Deadline: 2 December 2026

For researchers interested in nocturnal ecology, this Doctoral Researcher Oldenburg position offers an opportunity to investigate how artificial lighting reshapes moth movement and reproduction, connecting behavioural research with questions about habitat connectivity.

APPLY ONLINE HERE