Leading Scientist (f/m/x) in Biodiversity Research

Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung - UFZ

04318 Leipzig

Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-10-25

Overview

Leading Scientist (f/m/x) in Biodiversity Research at UFZ for the project 'Biodiversity Research for Plant Communities and Ecosystem Functions Resilient to Global Change'. 6-year project with two 3-year phases, tenure-track perspective, place of work Halle (Saale), 39 hours per week, full-time or part-time, fixed-term contract (initially 3 years, extendable).

Research Concept & International Collaboration: Develop key research questions and establish international collaborations.
Third-Party Funding Acquisition: Secure funding to staff the research group.
Scientific Leadership: Lead the research group and manage resources, supervise doctoral researchers, plan and oversee personnel, financial, and infrastructure resources.
Coordination & Management of the Research Infrastructure: Implement decision-making for research questions and experiments at the Bad Lauchstädt RI.
Public Engagement & Dissemination: Publish in peer-reviewed journals, present internally and at international conferences.
Line management and strategic input at department level.
Engage with national and international research networks and build professional profile.
Shape research agenda between basic and applied sciences; access to infrastructure; mentoring and leadership training.
Career development through target agreements and feedback; work-life balance and international staff support.

PhD in biology, ecology, geoecology or comparable field.
Research focus on experimental biodiversity-ecosystem function research, experimental ecosystem resilience research, and/or experimental biodiversity and global change research.
Substantial experience in setting up and coordinating experimental research and related infrastructure.
Well-developed modelling/statistical skills.
Solid knowledge of Central European flora and grassland vegetation.
Excellent publication record for career stage in relevant fields.
Good record of third-party funding acquisition.
Experience in scientific cooperation and networks.
Experience in supervision/leadership responsibilities.
Well-developed communication skills.
Excellent written and spoken English skills.

Line management responsibility for your own working group and a voice in strategic and financial decisions at department level.
Active integration into leading national and international research networks.
Freedom to shape your own research agenda between basic and applied sciences.
Access to excellent research infrastructure and well-equipped technical working environment.
Active mentoring and leadership training.
Clear target agreements and regular feedback discussions.
Supportive, flexible working environment with strong work-life balance and support for international staff.
Vibrant region with high quality of life and cultural diversity.

Fixed-term contract initially 3 years, potentially a further 3 years after positive interim evaluation.
Working time 100% (39 h/week).
Place of work Halle (Saale).

Applications must be submitted by October 25, 2026 via online portal.
Include cover letter, CV, and relevant supporting documents; no photo or age/marital status information.

Diversity and Inclusion statement; UFZ encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds; external experts will support the selection process.