The Landscape Ecology research group at the Institute of Environmental Sciences and Geography, University of Potsdam (Germany), invites applications for a Doctoral candidate position in community ecology research.
Research area and responsibilities: The successful candidate will work in close collaboration with a project titled “Shifts in functional trait-based community structure across space and taxonomic groups (FunShift)”. The main goal of the project is to better understand the mechanisms driving local biodiversity of 6 taxonomic groups (bees, birds, butterflies, carabid beetles, gastropods, and spiders) in Switzerland. The doctoral candidate will use functional trait-based approaches to assess the mechanisms related to species dispersal and local community assembly from a pool of potential colonizing species. The work includes manipulation of spatial data, application of a variety of numerical models, writing of scientific publications, and collaboration within the research team. The research plan will be formulated together with the candidate, depending on his/her interests and expertise. The candidate must be highly motivated for research and enjoy working in an international and cross-disciplinary team.
Requirements: The candidate student is expected to fulfill the following requirements.
- Applicants must have a completed Master of Science degree in a related field.
- A strong background in ecological sciences and data analyses is required.
- Familiarity with community assembly theory, functional trait approaches, and biodiversity analyses is an asset.
- Knowledge of quantitative analysis and programming skills are considered as an asset.
- Ability to work in a team, and willingness to learn.
- Very good English proficiency.
Expectations: The candidate student is expected to:
- Publish in top journals and scientific conferences
- Present results at international conferences
- Analyze complex ecological data and develop models
- Participate in lab activities and collaborate if needed
- Interact with MSc and BSc students
Research environment: The University of Potsdam is a young University that is globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, and innovation. It offers excellent working conditions in one of Germany’s most scenic areas. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Junior Professor Bertrand Fournier in the landscape ecology group. She/he will have the possibility to cooperate with world-class national and international partners, participate in interdisciplinary research, and attend scientific conferences and meetings. The research group provides flexible working hours, mobile working, as well as strong support and academic freedom.
Employment: The position is for 30 hours of work per week (75 %). The salary is determined by the collective bargaining agreement for public employees in Germany (TV-L 13 Ost). This is a temporary position limited to a term of 3 years in accordance with Section 2 Para 1 of the Academic Fixed-Term Contract Law (WissZeitVG).
Applications: Applications must be submitted as one PDF file including CV, motivation letter (describing your motivation, relevant skills, and experience), and names and contact of two reference persons. The applications should be sent by email to Prof. Bertrand Fournier (bertrand.fournier@nullunipotsdam.de) before the 31.10.2021 (but open until filled).
