Postdoctoral Researcher – Microclimate Ecology: The Division of Ecology, Evolution, and Biodiversity Conservation at KU Leuven is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher for the MICROMICS project. This project aims to enhance the prediction models of species’ range dynamics and extinction risks under environmental changes through microclimate and genomics-informed distribution modelling.
Postdoctoral Researcher – Microclimate Ecology and Adaptive Potential of Forest Herbs
Designation:
Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area:
Microclimate Ecology and Adaptive Potential of Forest Herbs
Location:
Division of Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity Conservation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification:
- PhD in Biology, Bioscience Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or a related field. The PhD must be obtained by the start date of the position.
- Strong background in evolutionary biology and/or genetics.
- Demonstrated competitive publication record.
- Excellent academic writing skills.
- Passion for nature and biodiversity.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as R or Python.
- Fluency in English, both written and oral.
- Team player with good communication skills and a willingness to collaborate.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will work closely with two PhD students on the MICROMICS project. Under the supervision of Prof. Hanne De Kort and Prof. Koenraad Van Meerbeek, the research will focus on the role of microclimate in shaping adaptive evolution and plant dispersal dynamics using extensive field and genetic data. Responsibilities include:
- Exploring relationships between genetic variation and microclimate.
- Preparing several first-author publications in respected journals.
- Developing postdoctoral fellowship proposals within the broad field of conservation genomics.
- Collaborating within a young and dynamic international scientific team.
- The initial contract is for at least one year, with a tentative start date of October 2024.
Offer:
- Full-time postdoctoral fellowship.
- Monthly scholarship calculated according to the pay scales for postdoctoral assistants.
- Benefits include eco-cheques, a bicycle and a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting, holidays, and bonuses.
- A supportive, balanced life-work environment.
How to Apply:
Send your application, consisting of a CV and application letter, to Prof. Hanne De Kort at hanne.dekort@kuleuven.be.
Last Date to Apply:
15th August 2024
Selection Process:
- Notification of selection for interview: End of August 2024
- Interviews (online or in person): Early September 2024
For more information about the Division and the MICROMICS project, visit KU Leuven’s Research Page.
