The ReOyster project (Integrative Measures for the Restoration of Intact Reef Systems of the European Oyster through a Multi-Species Approach) aims at the sustainable restoration of biogenic reefs in the German North Sea, with a particular focus on the European oyster (Ostrea edulis) and the reef habitats it forms. These habitats are among the most threatened marine ecosystems in temperate zones. They enhance biodiversity by providing food, shelter, and spawning grounds. Historic population collapse has led to the near-complete disappearance of these structures.
The project is jointly coordinated by the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (on behalf of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety), the Thünen Institute of Fisheries Ecology, and the Alfred Wegener Institute. The Thünen Institute is responsible for technical implementation, especially hatchery-based breeding of Ostrea edulis, while the Alfred Wegener Institute leads marine-based restoration activities.
Hatchery production includes broodstock conditioning, microalgae cultivation, larval rearing, settlement on natural substrates (e.g. shells, wood, 3D materials), and a micro-nursery phase. These steps require careful planning, technical oversight, staff training, and possibly external expertise.
In parallel, the Thünen Institute conducts applied research to improve production methods with regard to efficiency, sustainability, animal health, and ecological impact. International cooperation and targeted consulting ensure a high-quality, scalable production pipeline for reintroduction efforts.
RESPONSIBILITIES
(Phase-1)
- Design and set-up of hatchery structures, including algal cultures, structures for hatching, larval rearing and settlement, and micro-nurseries
- Creation of protocols for the experiments and production in the hatchery, including the monitoring and updating of these protocols
(Phase-2)
- Organization and coordination of production processes: Preparation, execution and follow-up of the production season
- Optimization and expansion of infrastructure and production
- Accompanying research to optimize production processes: methodology, material
- Preparation of scientific reports, presentations and participation in conferences active participation in events and PR measures of the project
QUALIFICATIONS
Professional requirements:
- University degree (Univ. Diploma, M. Sc., Ph.D.) in the field of aquaculture, marine ecology, marine biology or a related field, but with a clear connection to aquaculture
- Very good basic technical understanding of aquaculture
- Experience in handling living aquatic organisms
- Strong knowledge of marine hatchery or the cultivation of oysters and microalgae would be an advantage
- Experience in project management on aquaculture-related topics would be an advantage
Personal requirements:
- Organizational and coordination skills
- Team spirit, flexibility, high motivation and ability to work independently
- Strong communication and networking skills and a willingness to co-operate in research
- Willingness to travel domestically and abroad
- Very good knowledge of English and German or willingness to learn German required
- Experience in supervising students would be an advantage
Application deadline: August 15, 2025
