Postdoc Opportunity in Rangelands Program: Embark on a rewarding postdoctoral opportunity with the Wilder Rangelands program, a collaborative initiative led by the Centre for African Conservation Ecology (ACE) at Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa, and the Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies (VFM) at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Sweden. This project focuses on the impact of rewilding natural processes on carbon storage in South African grassy ecosystems, particularly exploring the role of fossorial mammals in carbon cycling.
Designation: Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area: Animating the Belowground Carbon Cycle — Role of Fossorial Mammals in Ecosystem Carbon
Location: Centre for African Conservation Ecology (ACE), Nelson Mandela University (NMU), Gqeberha, South Africa
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Ph.D. degree in a relevant discipline
- Background in soil science and mammal ecology (merit)
- Fieldwork experience in grassy ecosystems, especially in African systems (merit)
- Excellent academic writing skills with publications as a first author
- Fluency in English
- Ability to work independently and participate in multi-month field campaigns under challenging conditions
- Strong interest in fundamental science and sustainability challenges, particularly in climate change
Job Description:
Postdoc Opportunity in the Wilder Rangelands Program – ‘Animating the Belowground Carbon Cycle — the Role of Fossorial Mammals in Ecosystem Carbon’
The successful candidate will:
- Work on the impact of rewilding natural processes on carbon storage
- Investigate the role of fossorial mammals in shaping carbon cycling in grassy ecosystems
- Participate in a large-scale field campaign, collecting empirical data on mammal functional roles
- Develop and work on individual research ideas within the program
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a written application to the contact persons below, including:
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages)
- CV including publication list (max 4 pages)
- Letters from 2 academic referees (e.g., former supervisors)
- Full academic transcripts of obtained qualifications
Send applications to:
- Prof. Joris Cromsigt (joris.cromsigt@slu.se)
- Prof. Graham Kerley (graham.kerley@mandela.ac.za)
- Assoc. Prof. Mariska to Beest (m.tebeest@uu.n1)
Last Date for Apply: The closing date for applications is 5 January 2024 or until the position is filled.
Table: Bursary Details
| Duration | Host Institution | Bursary Amount | Extension Possibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| At least 12 months | ACE, Nelson Mandela University (NMU) | R350,000 per annum (pro-rated) | 12-month extension possible based on progress |
Note: The bursary is through NMU, with no formal work contract with VFM. It includes a flat-rate, tax-free amount without secondary benefits. Opportunities for additional funding and shorter stays at international partners in Sweden and/or the Netherlands are available.
