Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/x) Food Web Ecology
Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung - UFZ
04318 Leipzig
Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-10-18
The job
- Postdoctoral Researcher role focusing on food-web ecology within the MetaBoxWeb project. Work with a second postdoctoral researcher and an international network of freshwater ecologists to address how biodiversity regulates ecosystem functioning and how relationships shift under human impacts. Place of work in Magdeburg; 39 hours per week; open to full-time or part-time.
- The project combines food-web ecology, biodiversity–ecosystem functioning theory, and stream biogeochemistry to analyze energy flow and ecosystem processes in streams and rivers across regions and conditions.
Ihre Aufgaben
- Take a leading role in the food-web component of MetaBoxWeb and develop your own ideas within the broader project framework.
- Conduct synthesis and analysis of ecological datasets.
- Lead the development of quantitative food webs and energy fluxes.
- Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
Ihr Profil
- PhD in ecology, biology or a closely related discipline.
- Strong background in freshwater ecology, food-web ecology, community ecology or ecosystem ecology.
- Experience with ecological datasets and strong quantitative skills.
- Proficiency in R and experience with statistical analysis and reproducible workflows.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish internationally.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work across disciplinary boundaries in an international team.
Wir bieten
- The freedom to master demanding challenges between basic research and practical application.
- Interdisciplinary, international teams and diverse perspectives.
- Excellent research infrastructure and data management.
- Flexible working hours and family-office support for work-life balance.
- Support for international colleagues from the International Office.
- Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits, and subsidised Germany Job Ticket.
- A diverse, high-quality living region.
Befristung
- Limited contract for 24 months.
- 100% working time (39 h/week); option for full-time or part-time employment.
- Location: Magdeburg, Germany.
- Remuneration according to TVöD public-sector up to pay grade 13 with benefits.
Bewerbung
- Application deadline: 18.10.2026.
- Submit application (cover letter, CV, and relevant supporting documents) via online portal without photo, age information, or marital status details.
Kontakt
- PD Dr. Mario Brauns (contact) mario.brauns@ufz.de
Sonstiges
- Diversity and Inclusion statement encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds.
- UFZ values equal opportunities and aims to support a sustainable and inclusive workplace.