Research Assistant in fish reproductive biology and spawning habitat modelling

Job Details

We are looking for a Research Assistant to join our team. The position offers an opportunity for you to work at the intersection among fish reproductive ecology, biophysical modelling and ecosystem management. In this context, DTU Aqua offers a 14-months Research Assistant position to contribute to research projects related to fish stock dynamics, fisheries and climate impacts. 

As our Research Assistant you will contribute to two research projects, MAKE-IT and EFISH, which focus on fish stock reproductive potential and spatial-temporal modelling of targeted species. Here, laboratory tasks involve histological techniques and fecundity analyses related to egg production models including digitization tools for precise visualization, analyses and documentation. Alongside, modelling contributions are anticipated to define spawning habitats based on fish reproductive parameters and egg abundance. This involves habitat mapping and the application of coupled hydrodynamic and ecological models to support fish stock assessment and fisheries management. Tasks will be performed in close collaboration with the project teams and relevant Expert Groups in the International Council of the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). 

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Histological and image analysis for determination of fish reproductive parameters, including fecundity and spawning fraction (autodiametric method and possibly stereology).
• Data analysis, modelling and integration of data into digital maps for overviewing fish distribution, spawning habitats and processes impacting habitat quality.
• Map and model spatial and temporal variability in fish reproductive performance and egg production considering hydrographic conditions (climate impacts).
• Work with project participants and relevant ICES expert groups on data acquisition, quality assurance, and evaluation of the developed models and tools.
• Summarize scientific results for evaluation of stock dynamics, fisheries and climate impacts on spawning habitat quality, and utilization in spatial fisheries management.

Requirements

As a formal qualification, you must have a master’s degree in engineering or equivalent. 

Our working language is English, but basic skills in Danish is an asset. 

We consider the following skills as prerequisite to perform the job: 

• Knowledge about marine biology considering fish ecology and anthropogenic impacts (incl. climate).
• Expertise in fish ontogeny, histological methodology and fecundity assessment. 
• Insights into the application of mapping tools to identify habitats and habitat quality. 
• Proficiency in data processing and analysis with statistical and modelling software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R) for handling large datasets.
• Proficiency in oral and written English communication.

If you have complementing competences, these will be regarded as an advantage, for example:

• Acquaintance with data collection in marine environments, particularly relevant existing research surveys.
• Experience working with ICES expert groups and databases.
• Ability to work independently as well as to integrate into multidisciplinary teams. 

Contact Information

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Jonna Tomkiewicz, Coordinator Fish Biology Research group, jt@aqua.dtu.dk, or Carsten Hvingel, Head of Section Marine Living Resources, carhv@aqua.dtu.dk, National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark. 

You can read more about DTU Aqua at www.aqua.dtu.dk 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 3 September 2025 (23:59 Danish time). 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV 
• Academic Diplomas (MSc)

The CV must include a detailed description of competences and previous academic experience.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.