Postdoc Functional diversity of microbial communities in aquifers

BRGM; France; Sur place; EUR 35 000 - 50 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading research institution in Earth Sciences is seeking a postdoctoral researcher focused on understanding denitrification processes in groundwater. You will analyze complex metabarcoding data and conduct statistical analyses to connect microbial activities with environmental factors. Candidates must have a PhD in microbial ecology and experience with data analysis and lab work. The position involves collaborating in a multidisciplinary team, contributing to scientific publications, and engaging in field activities across France.

Prestations

13th month salary

Days off for unpaid overtime

Company canteen

Sports facilities

Holiday and leisure options

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant field.
• Experience with metabarcoding and metagenomic data analysis.
• Strong command of statistical data processing.

Responsabilités

• Analyze metabarcoding and metagenomic data from groundwater samples.
• Conduct statistical analyses to link processes to environmental conditions.
• Participate in laboratory experiments and data dissemination.

Connaissances

Microbial ecology

Data analysis

Experimental methods

Statistical approaches

Communication skills

Teamwork

Formation

PhD in microbial ecology or environmental microbial ecotoxicology

Description du poste

Organisation/Company BRGM Research Field Biological sciences » Biodiversity Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Postdoc Positions Country France Application Deadline 31 Jan 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Brussels) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 1 Feb 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number 2025-3962 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Joining the French Geological Survey (BRGM) means becoming part of France's leading public institution for Earth Science applications bringing together 1,000 wholeheartedly committed experts across 29 bases in Mainland and Overseas France. BRGM focuses on enhancing geological knowledge and understanding of surface and sub-surface-related phenomena, with a view to meeting the challenges of environmental changes through innovative projects with societal implications.

Aquifers constitute the main source of drinking water for humans worldwide. The long-term sustainability of this resource largely depends on certain ecosystem services provided by aquifers. In particular, natural purification of water is a fundamental ecosystem service, playing a key role in mitigating pollutants originating from anthropogenic activities and transferred from the surface to groundwater.

To date, this service has been insufficiently considered in aquifer management and regulatory policies, as illustrated by the case of nitrates. Nitrates represent a major pollutant threatening groundwater quality on a global scale. However, their impact can be mitigated through in situ denitrification, a function carried out by natural groundwater microbial communities.

The DeepThought project (Water4All, 2025–2028) aims to understand the mechanisms leading to denitrification in groundwater and to assess the impacts of anthropogenic pressures and climate change on denitrification rates. In this context, we are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the project team and contribute to the research activities conducted to achieve these objectives.

Context and contributions of the position:

Within the Groundwater Quality team of the Water Division at BRGM, this postdoctoral project will aim to work on the analysis of metabarcoding and metagenomic data obtained from groundwater samples from the Beauce aquifer, in order to better understand the functional diversity of microbial communities in these ecosystems and to characterize those responsible for denitrification and other major biogeochemical cycles.

Statistical analyses of these datasets in conjunction with hydrogeochemical data are also expected, with the goal of linking denitrification processes to hydrological, geological, and biogeochemical conditions and variations.

This work will be carried out using both field groundwater samples and data from experiments conducted and monitored in the laboratory. Participation in the setup and monitoring of these laboratory experiments will therefore also be considered. The analysis and interpretation of results, as well as their dissemination through publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals, are also expected, along with contributions to the writing of the project deliverables.

• Candidate must hold a PhD in microbial ecology or environmental microbial ecotoxicology.
• Experience in the analysis of metabarcoding and metagenomic data is required, as well as a strong command of data processing using statistical approaches.
• Proficiency in classical experimental methods in microbiology and molecular biology is desirable, along with experience in laboratory experimentation.
• Candidate is also expected to conduct research and data analyses independently and to have a strong interest in working within a multidisciplinary team, which is central to this postdoctoral position.
• Excellent scientific writing and communication skills, with proficiency in written and spoken English, are required.

Specific Requirements

Laboratory work, which may require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and office-based work (writing). Occasional travel and participation in field activities are planned at sampling sites in France (primarily the Beauce region), as well as travel to carry out measurements with project partners (Austria and/or Denmark).

Participation in project meetings, both in person and remotely, with project partners. Contribution to the writing of project reports and deliverables. Presentation of results at scientific conferences and dissemination of findings through publication in a scientific journal.

Contact: Jennifer HARRIS [e-mail]

Within an environment that promotes a healthy work/life balance, particularly thanks to remote working, BRGM prides itself on providing a friendly and caring place to work.

Awarded HRS4R certification in 2021, we are committed to supporting you throughout your career at BRGM. We provide you with a range of tools for developing your skills and expertise, with scope for career progression and geographic mobility.

At BRGM, you will gain from such benefits as a 13th month salary, days off compensating for unpaid overtime, a company canteen, sports facilities as well as holiday and leisure options.

Selection process

At BRGM, you are guaranteed a transparent recruitment process. It is easy to apply! Please send us your application (up-to-date CV and cover letter) by 31/01/2026.

Because diversity matters to us at BRGM, all of our job vacancies are open to everyone!

We will examine your application as soon as the closing date has passed. If your application is short-listed, we will contact you for recruitment interviews during which you will have the opportunity to talk with the recruitment and HR departments as well as a cross-functional department.