PhD student (m/f/d) in extinction risk modelling

Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena

07743 Jena

Bewerbungsfrist nicht angegeben

Overview

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena and iDiv invite applications for a PhD student in extinction risk modelling.
The position is part of the BinA group and the ExChange project, funded by DFG.
Workplace: iDiv in Leipzig; 65% position (26 hours/week); fixed-term for 3 years.

You develop trait-based macroecological research that models extinction of mammalian species in the fossil record and extinction risk in the present and future, based on the project proposal funded by the German Research Foundation DFG
You closely work with project partners who focus on the drivers of population decline and geographic range changes to assist in developing joint conceptual and modelling frameworks for extinction risk
You handle ecological databases with many species and their traits, utilizing computer code in the R computing environment to run statistical analyses and models, e.g. estimation of extinction rates in the fossil record, phylogenetic comparative methods
You conduct scientific work that qualifies you for a PhD degree in biology, including publications of scientific papers in international peer-reviewed journals
You present your research at national and international meetings and conferences

Successfully completed university degree (Masters or equivalent) with a focus on organismic biology, ideally an MSc in zoology, ecology, palaeontology, or a related discipline
Good knowledge of ecological and evolutionary concepts and systems; experience in mammalian biology is advantageous
Advanced experience in programming language (ideally R) and basic quantitative and statistical expertise; more advanced statistical experience advantageous (e.g., phylogenetic comparative models, fossil diversity analyses, extinction or diversification rates)
Strong oral and written communication skills in English
Willingness to apply and engage with interdisciplinary research

An intellectually stimulating, independent and varied scientific activity with creative freedom
An international, English-speaking research environment with regular integrative group activities
Participation in iDiv doctoral training program and University of Jena graduate academy with workshops, coaching, mentoring and networking events for PhD students
A modern, family-friendly working environment with flexible working hours and mobile work
Remuneration according to TV-L up to salary scale E13, including a special annual payment
30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

Apply by using the online form
Upload a single PDF containing motivation letter, CV, abstract of Master’s thesis, two referees’ contact details, and relevant certificates
If Master certificate not yet available, provide supervisor letter with thesis submission date and probable mark, current transcript, and Bachelor certificate (or equivalent)