PhD Student (River and Floodplain Ecology)

Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung has an international reputation in all fields of Natural History research. It runs six research institutes and two museums in Germany and is also custodian of the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Messel. The Department of River Ecology and Conservation at Senckenberg and the Biodiversity and Climate Research Center (BiK-F) jointly invites applications for a

PhD Student (River and Floodplain Ecology)

The successful candidate will join a highly motivated team of 20 scientists and research support staff who are working at the Senckenberg Research Station Gelnhausen (close to Frankfurt) and in close cooperation with Research Area B of BiK-F on a variety of topics in river and floodplain ecology and conservation.

Candidates must hold a Master in Biology or related disciplines, have a background in freshwater (macro-) ecology and zoology, and advanced skills in analysis of large datasets and/or ecological modeling.

The incumbent will investigate the effects of flow dynamics on terrestrial and aquatic invertebrate communities in a floodplain ecosystem that is a mosaic of forest, agricultural and settlement areas. In particular, two main objectives will be addressed: (a) species diversity and traits in relation to hydrological conditions and land use in floodplains, and (b) the effects of flow dynamics on substrate distribution and remobilization as well as the subsequent effects on invertebrates. The research to answer these questions will be conducted at the Rhine-Main-Observatory, an LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) site that is cross linked via German and European LTER networks. Therefore, this position implies the possibility to contribute to ongoing German and EU LTER projects.

The position involves field research, as well as some laboratory work. Knowledge in handling large datasets and in statistical analysis is required; competency in modeling (i.e. application of an existing hydrological model) will be an advantage. We are seeking an individual with excellent verbal and written communication skills who is willing to co-operate with other research groups at Senckenberg, the University of Frankfurt, and BiK-F.

Scholarship funding is available for three years, starting asap.

Senckenberg wishes to increase the share of women in areas where they are underrepresented, and strongly encourages women to apply. Senckenberg has an affirmative action policy for the disabled and especially encourages them to apply.

Please apply by sending your application to Britta Werner, Senckenberg, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt/Main, Germany,  by mail or (preferably) by e-mail in a single pdf, including a letter outlining your suitability for the post, a detailed CV, contact details of 2 referees, a list of publications and funding until August 31, 2012 to: recruiting@senckenberg.de.

For scientific enquiries feel free to contact: stefan.stoll@senckenberg.de