Open Postdoc Position in Conservation Biology/Restoration Ecology at the University of Bern, Switzerland
Position: Postdoc in Conservation Biology/Restoration Ecology
Location: University of Bern, Baltzerstrasse 6, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
Duration: 12-24 months
Language Requirement: English
Contact: jean-yves.humbert@unibe.ch
Closing Date: 15/01/2025
Start Date: 01/03/2025
Job Description
The Division of Conservation Biology at the University of Bern invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the field of conservation biology/restoration ecology. This position is part of a research program funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, titled "Restoring Grassland Biodiversity: From Degraded, Species-Poor to Integral Stable-State Ecosystems."
The research program, launched in 2018, focuses on developing and evaluating restoration methods aimed at converting species-poor grasslands into biodiversity-rich ecosystems. The project includes two main modules:
- Lowland Module: Focuses on proactive restoration methods for hay meadows.
- Mountain Module: Investigates passive restoration methods to enhance biodiversity in degraded grasslands in the Swiss Alps.
The position will involve data analysis on plants and invertebrates previously collected during the project and the preparation of scientific manuscripts. Research questions will be shaped based on the candidate's interests. The postdoc will also co-supervise PhD students and several MSc and BSc students, and contribute to teaching activities. Collaboration with the Institute of Ecology and Evolution, other division members, and external partners will be encouraged.
Responsibilities
- Analyze data on plants and invertebrates collected as part of the restoration project.
- Prepare scientific publications and contribute to writing manuscripts.
- Supervise one PhD student and several MSc/BSc students.
- Participate in teaching activities related to the research program.
- Collaborate with external stakeholders and other research institutions.
Qualifications
- Education: PhD in ecology, conservation biology, agro-ecology, or a related field.
- Experience: Strong research experience in agro-ecology and restoration ecology, demonstrated by a solid publication record.
- Skills:
- Strong analytical and statistical skills.
- Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., R, GIS).
- Excellent English writing skills, with experience in publishing peer-reviewed articles.
- Experience in supervising students is a plus.
- Additional: Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and international research environment.
Employment Details
- Employment: 80-100% (full-time or part-time, depending on candidate preferences).
- Duration: Approximately 2 years.
- Salary: Gross salary in line with Swiss National Science Foundation guidelines (CHF 80,000–110,000 per annum).
- Start Date: Expected starting date is 1st March 2025.
How to Apply
Please submit the following documents as a single PDF file to jean-yves.humbert@unibe.ch:
- Letter of motivation
- CV, including a list of publications
- Summary of PhD thesis
- Contact details of two references (names, institutional addresses, emails, and phone numbers)
Application Deadline: 15th January 2025
The University of Bern promotes equal opportunities and aims to reduce barriers to entry, supporting a diverse and inclusive work environment.
