Description of the position:
Eurac Research is a private multidisciplinary research center located in Bolzano/Bozen (Italy), in the heart of the Italian Alps. Founded in 1992, it aims to find solutions to pressing societal challenges: keeping societies healthy, fostering intact environments, promoting sustainable energy and developing well-functioning political and social systems. Currently, it has over 650 employees and is organized in 11 Institutes and 7 Centers.
Within the Institute for Alpine Environment, we are looking for an ambitious and motivated researcher to work as spatial ecologist and data manager for the recently funded Interreg Alpine Space project “AlpsLife CUP: D53C23004080005”.
The ideal candidate has strong experience in the collection, validation, and management of biodiversity data (e.g., presence/absence data, biodiversity indicators, multi-taxonomic EBVs) and the analysis of large spatial datasets. The ideal candidate also has previous experience in management and communication within large collaborative EU projects, as well as in writing reports and scientific publications.
We offer a full-time contract starting in September 2024 based at the headquarters of Eurac in Bolzano/Bozen with an initial duration of 24 months and the possibility of extension up to 36 months.
More information on the project are available by clicking the following link
Tasks:
- Manage and analyze large spatiotemporal datasets for application in biodiversity modelling and assessment.
- Carry out research activities independently and oversee biodiversity data collection, quality control, and harmonization of different data sources. Manage correspondence and coordinating with project partners to collect data from various monitoring schemes at the Alpine level.
- Review species indicators/indices endorsed at the EU (Birds and Habitats Directives) and global level as indicators of biodiversity loss in mountain areas.
- Support project management activities within AlpsLife in close collaboration with the Scientific Project Coordinator of Eurac Research.
- Collaborate with other researchers in the team and external partners to link biodiversity spatial products for future land-use change scenarios.
- Produce high-quality scientific outputs in the form of journal publications and contribution to relevant policy reports.
- Apply open science principles (e.g., data papers, open-source code, metadata specifications).
Requirements:
- Master’s or PhD degree in a relevant discipline, such as biology, quantitative spatial ecology, environmental engineering, geography or related fields.
- Fluency in spoken and written English (minimum level C1) and good knowledge of at least one Alpine language (Italian, French, Slovenian, or German).
- Experience in managing projects or project components, including effective resource management, delivery of project outputs, and working with research teams in an international environment.
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in biodiversity research or quantitative spatial ecology, including knowledge and expertise in core ecological disciplines such as macroecology, biogeography, and conservation biology.
- Proven advanced statistical modelling or data analytics skills, and programming capabilities in one or more languages relevant to spatial modelling andanalysis (e.g., Python, R, C++).
- Proficiency with ESRI products or comparable GIS software.
- Skills in collection, quality control, and management of different types of data from various monitoring schemes are an asset. Experience in reproducible workflows, code version control and management (e.g., Git, GitHub) is highly valued.
- Excellent organization and communication skills (e.g., as evidenced through publications and presentations at conferences).
We offer:
- Full-time, fixed-term contract for an initial period of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal for up to 3 years.
- Competitive compensation package based on experience, including meal vouchers, childcare support, and private health care.
- Opportunity for continuing education through Eurac´s Education and Training Centre.
- Opportunity to work in a young, international, and interdisciplinary team.
- Attractive living and working conditions (Great Place to Work©).
- Family-friendly and flexible working hours.
Interested candidates should submit their application (CV, a motivation letter, 2 letters of reference documenting your previous work, and a list of publications) within 31.07.2024
