Job Title: Scientific Employee for the Biodiversa+ Project “WildINTEL” (m/f/d)
Designation: PhD or Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area: Biodiversity Conservation, Camera Trapping, Ecological Statistics, Artificial Intelligence
Location: Leipzig, Germany
Salary: Up to Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L, depending on qualifications and experience
Duration: 36 months (PhD position) or 26 months (Postdoc position)
Job Summary:
Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU) and the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig are seeking a motivated PhD or Postdoctoral researcher for the Biodiversa+ Project “WildINTEL.” This project aims to advance data integration of camera trapping observations with Essential Biodiversity Variables, contributing to scalable wildlife monitoring. The successful candidate will join the Biodiversity Conservation research group led by Dr. Néstor Fernández, with fieldwork focused on the Oder Delta and collaborations spanning Europe.
Eligibility/Qualification:
- A completed scientific university degree (Diploma/M.Sc.) in Ecology, Conservation Biology, Environmental Sciences, or related fields.
- Proven research skills in ecological statistics, modeling, and geographic information systems.
- Experience in ecological field surveys and camera trapping is an advantage.
- A strong publication record appropriate to the applicant’s level of research experience.
- Fluency in English (spoken and written); knowledge of German is a plus.
- Excellent communication skills.
- A valid driving license (German or international).
- Priority will be given to severely disabled candidates with equivalent qualifications.
Job Description:
- Develop a standardized workflow for Essential Biodiversity Variables using camera trapping data and apply it to assess mammal communities in various study sites.
- Create reproducible code for multi-user workflow deployment, including integration with the Bon-in-a-Box platform.
- Conduct a camera trapping field study in the Oder Delta to analyze mammal population abundance, community composition, and species interactions.
- Develop statistical models, such as distance-sampling or joint species distribution, to estimate biodiversity metrics.
- Contribute to the WildINTEL project’s milestones and deliverables, including writing reports and presenting findings.
- Participate in and help organize project workshops and stakeholder meetings.
- Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at scientific conferences.
How to Apply:
Submit your application dossier (including a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, digital copies of relevant degrees, a publication list, and contact details for two referees) in English by 16.10.2024. Applications must be submitted through the iDiv application portal at https://apply.idiv.de, referencing registration number 4-9691/24-D. For more information, contact Dr. Néstor Fernández at nestor.fernandez@idiv.de. Queries about the application process can be directed to hr@idiv.de.
Last Date for Application: 16.10.2024
