PhD position in global change ecology

Universität Basel; Basel; Vor Ort; CHF 55.000 - 70.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

The University of Basel invites applications for a PhD position in the Ecology group within the ERC project GloNoMo, collaborating with GLORIA and MIREN. The successful candidate will study the macroecological distribution of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems, with opportunities for fieldwork and teaching contributions.

We seek a highly motivated MSc holder in ecology or related fields, strong English skills, and proficiency in statistics and data handling.

Qualifikationen

• MSc in ecology, botany, biogeography, environmental science or related fields.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to work in teams and in an inclusive workplace.

Aufgaben

• Conduct macroecological analyses on distribution of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems.
• Collaborate with team members and external institutions; contribute to teaching and other research activities.
• Fieldwork is possible but not mandatory.

Kenntnisse

R

Data analysis

Teamwork

English proficiency

Ausbildung

MSc in ecology or environmental sciences

Tools

GIS

R programming

Jobbeschreibung

The research group Ecology at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland invites applications for a PhD position within the ERC project 'Global status, trends, drivers and impacts of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems' (GloNoMo), in collaboration with the Global Observation Research Initiative in Alpine Environments (GLORIA) and the Mountain Invasion Research Network (MIREN).

Project description The biodiversity crisis is in part driven by invasive species, yet many non-natives are only recognized as invasive once they are widespread. A key challenge is thus to identify which non-native species may spread into natural ecosystems before their eradication becomes unfeasible. Mountain ecosystems remained comparatively natural and are thought to be only minimally affected, but non-native plants are spreading upslope along roads and trails. However, it remains unknown whether non-native plant species already occur in undisturbed habitats, which species have the potential to spread, which drivers besides roads and trails are decisive, and which species should be classified as invasive. GloNoMo will address these gaps by combining field observations, experiments, and macroecological analyses using so far untapped global monitoring data across all populated continents.

Your position

The successful candidate will focus their research on macroecological analyses of the distribution of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems over space and time. The candidate is expected to collaborate closely with other team members and researchers from other institutions, and contribute to teaching and other research activities of the research group Ecology. Fieldwork is possible but not mandatory.

Your profile

Applicants should hold a MSc degree in ecology, botany, biogeography, environmental science or related fields. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a self-organized and solution-oriented work attitude. Strong communication and organizational skills, the ability to work in teams and a commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace are essential. Very good written and spoken English is a must. Candidates should be skilled in statistical analyses using R and in handling large datasets. Experience in GIS is a plus.

We especially encourage applications from women and from persons underrepresented in academic research.