Technician position (m/f/d) in Plant Ecology

The State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart (SMNS) is one of the largest

and most popular natural history museums in Germany. As a modern research

museum, we see ourselves as a bridge between science and society, offering a

vibrant platform for dialogue and exchange. Innovation arises where

cutting-edge research meets our unique collection and creative outreach. We are

passionately committed to the conservation of biodiversity. Our aim is to

preserve the foundations of life and thus help shape a positive future.

Our motto, ‘On A Mission For Diversity’, shapes the work of our 190 staff

members from all over the world. We value diverse talents and perspectives,

foster team spirit and place great importance on a positive and supportive

working environment.

We are seeking to fill a position as soon as possible:

Technician position (m/f/d) in Plant Ecology

Full-time (100%), fixed-term for 6 months

Remuneration in accordance with TV-L E 9a

Applications accepted until 15 November 2026

This position is part of HYPERSPACE, an international research project funded

by the German Research Foundation (DFG, Germany) and the French National

Research Agency (ANR, France). The project investigates the patterns and

processes underlying plant hyperaccumulation of heavy metals. It takes a

multidisciplinary approach, examining gene expression, metal allocation,

individual fitness, functional trade-offs and the community-level consequences

of hyperaccumulation.

Within the field of functional and comparative ecology, the main task is to

contribute to field sample collection and processing. The successful candidate

will support the processing of samples for the large-scale characterisation of

plant functional traits. The role also involves preparing for and participating

in a field campaign in the western United States, in close collaboration with

Dr Pierre Liancourt. The technician will work closely with the laboratory of

Professor Katja Tielbörger, the principal investigator leading the HYPERSPACE

project in Germany.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Implementing and adapting techniques and methods in plant functional

ecology, with trait measurements conducted both in the field and in the

laboratory. Plant organs (leaves, stems and roots) and soil samples will be

analysed for metal concentrations.

• Contributing to data collection, formatting and management, and maintaining

detailed records of protocols and procedures.

• Following appropriate hygiene and safety procedures when handling plant and

soil samples with elevated metal concentrations, both in the field and in the

laboratory.

You have the following skills and knowledge:

• A Bachelor’s degree in ecology or an equivalent qualification.
• English proficiency at B2 level or above; C1 or C2 preferred for

communication with international partners.

• Basic knowledge of functional ecology and methods for measuring

above-ground and root functional traits.

• An understanding of major plant adaptations to exposure to metals and

metalloids.

• Experience in sample collection and international transport, including

relevant regulatory requirements.

• Experience in functional trait measurements using specialist software such

as WinFolia and WinRhizo.

• Enjoyment of fieldwork and the physical fitness required for potentially

demanding conditions, including mountainous terrain and remote areas.

• Precision and thoroughness in laboratory work, which will account for a

substantial proportion of the role, particularly when handling plant and soil

samples with elevated metal concentrations.

• Clear and open communication with a range of stakeholders, including

international researchers.

• The ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, meet deadlines and

adapt to changing workloads.

• A valid Category B driving licence.
• Willingness and ability to travel to the United States for fieldwork,

subject to applicable travel and entry requirements; travel expenses will be

covered by the project.

Here are the benefits we offer:

• The opportunity to develop your career at an internationally renowned

research museum.

• A friendly, dynamic and interdisciplinary working environment.
• An attractive workplace in central Stuttgart.
• A subsidised public transport ticket (JobTicket BW).
• Generous core hours, flexible working arrangements and the option to work

remotely.

• Core funding for research and conference travel.
• The opportunity to participate in established research projects at the

State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart (SMNS).

• Family-friendly working conditions.
• Support with learning German, if required.

Please submit your application exclusively via our website, including:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation and a CV.
• The names and contact details of two referees.
• Copies of relevant certificates.

Applications are welcome in English. We strongly encourage women to apply.

Diversity and inclusion are central to our values: applications from people

with severe disabilities will be given priority where candidates are equally

qualified. Since 2019, we hold the ‘audit berufundfamilie’ certificate and

offer working conditions that are demonstrably family- and life-stage-friendly.

Would you like more information? Dr. Pierre Liancourt will be happy to assist

you. You can reach him by email [email protected].

Data protection information for applicants can be found on our website under

‘Jobs’.