Postdoc in long-term changes in plant diversity

Københavns Universitet; København; Hybrid; DKK 450,000 - 550,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Copenhagen invites applications for a 2-year postdoctoral position focused on understanding the drivers of long-term changes in Danish plant diversity. The project uses fine-grain gridded biodiversity data from around 1930 and 2010 to quantify biodiversity change through time and to identify environmental drivers from historical land use and landscape change.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in plant ecology or biodiversity science, possess strong quantitative analysis

Qualifications

• PhD in plant ecology, biodiversity science, or related field.
• No more than 4 years post-PhD experience.
• Expertise in quantitative statistical analysis and ecological modelling.
• Advanced experience in programming using R or similar.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills.

Responsibilities

• Investigate long-term drivers of changes in Danish plant diversity.
• Quantify occupancy changes of vascular plants on centennial scales.
• Assess drivers using historical and contemporary data sources.
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary research group.

Skills

Quantitative statistics

Ecological modelling

Programming in R

Scientific communication

Independent collaboration

English proficiency

Education

PhD in plant ecology / biodiversity science

Tools

R

Job description

Postdoc in long-term changes in plant diversity

We invite applications for a 2-year postdoctoral position focused on understanding the drivers of long-term changes in Danish plant diversity. The aim of the research is to gain a deep understanding of biodiversity change over time and its ecological drivers, from recent decades to centuries. Understanding which species, functional groups and ecosystem processes have been lost in recent centuries or deeper in time constitutes the best cure against shifting baseline syndrome. You will assess changes in occupancy of vascular plant species in Denmark on a centennial time scale and identify the environmental drivers underlying these changes. The project is based on fine-grain gridded biodiversity data from around 1930 and 2010 to quantify biodiversity changes through time. Potential drivers will be assessed from a broad range of historical and contemporary data sources, including topographical maps, land-cover models, agricultural statistics and other land-use information, and traits of winner and loser species. You will work in an interdisciplinary setting, in which understanding of plant ecology is essential. You will be part of a research group focused on ecology, biodiversity and conservation science at large. Professor Hans Henrik Bruun (Department of Biology) is the main advisor of the project, which is funded by the June 15 Foundation. Postdoc Ditte Marie Christiansen (Globe Institute) will be a key partner in the work, which also has collaborators from KU-PLEN, AU-Ecoscience and Leibniz Universität Hannover.

We are looking for a highly skilled and committed scientist with the following competencies and experience: You have, or will soon have, a PhD in plant ecology, biodiversity science or a related field. No more than 4 years post-PhD experience (can be extended for leave of absence). Expertise in quantitative statistical analysis and ecological modelling. Experience in analyzing biodiversity patterns and land-use change impacts on plant communities. Advanced experience in programming using R or similar. Demonstrated ability to communicate scientific results effectively through publications and presentations. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in research teams. Excellent written and spoken English skills. The following competencies are considered additional assets: Strong research background in community ecology, biodiversity, global change ecology, and/or conservation science. Experience working with large biodiversity datasets and spatial analysis. A strong publication record, including first-author papers in high-quality international peer-reviewed journals.

Further information on the Department is linked at www1.bio.ku.dk. Inquiries about the position can be made to head of department Edda Klipp.

The position is open from 01-01-2027or as soon as possible thereafter.

The Universitywishesour staff toreflect the diversity ofsociety and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The deadline for applications is 9 October 2026, 23:59 GMT +2.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

Interviews are expected to be held on 23 October 2026.

Part of the InternationalAllianceof Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.

Department/Location: Department of Biology

Contact: University of Copenhagen
[e-mail]