Postdoc Position in Ecological Modelling at University of Basel, Switzerland

The University of Basel’s Department of Environmental Sciences is inviting applications for a fully funded Postdoc position in ecological modelling. This research opportunity focuses on global change and its impact on mountain ecosystems, specifically examining how plant species distributions shift in response to climatic trends.

Summary

This 2-year postdoctoral fellowship focuses on modelling the relaxation times of accrued lags in plant species across Europe’s mountain ranges. The successful candidate will work within a dynamic research group to analyze spatially explicit datasets and contribute to our understanding of ecosystem functioning under environmental change.

Position Details

Research Area

The research focuses on ecological modelling in the context of global change. Specifically, the project investigates mountain ecosystems, which are warming faster than the global average. The work involves computing relaxation times for plant species that are lagging behind climatic trends using established datasets of species-specific shifts over recent decades.

Eligibility/Qualification

The ideal candidate should meet the following requirements:

• Education: A PhD degree in ecology, botany, biogeography, environmental science, computational biology, or a related field.
• Technical Skills: Strong expertise in statistical analyses and modelling (preferably in R) and experience handling large databases.
• Experience: Previous experience in mountain plant ecology or analyzing species’ range shifts is highly desirable.
• Communication: Excellent written and spoken English skills.
• Soft Skills: Self-organized, solution-oriented, and able to work effectively in a collaborative, inclusive team environment.

Position Description

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Modelling relaxation times of accrued lags of plant species across European mountain ranges.
• Collaborating with internal team members and international researchers.
• Co-supervising PhD and MSc students.
• Contributing to teaching and other research activities within the Department of Environmental Sciences.
• The University offers internationally competitive salaries and social benefits in a vibrant, international city.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the University of Basel online recruiting platform. Your application package should include:

1. A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) detailing research interests and fit for the profile.
2. A CV including a full publication list with citation numbers.
3. A copy of your PhD degree (or a statement indicating when it will be obtained).
4. Contact details for three references and your relationship to them.

Please address further questions to Prof. Dr. Sabine Rumpf at sabine.rumpf@unibas.ch.

Last Date for Apply

November 19, 2026

Apply Link

Official Application Portal – University of Basel