Postdoc position on Ecological Scaling (M/F)

CNRS - National Center for Scientific Research; France; On-site; EUR 28,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

CNRS - Station d'Ecologie Théorique et Expérimentale (SETE) in Ariège, France, invites applications for a postdoctoral associate to advance ecological scaling theory. The role emphasizes developing analytical theory and/or simulation models for spatial and network dimensions of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, in collaboration with the BIOcean5D project team.

The candidate will engage with metacommunity theory, ecological networks, and cross-partner activities within a large European

Qualifications

• Strong theoretical background in ecology or related theory.
• Good command of English language for collaboration and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Develop analytical theory and/or simulation models on ecological scaling.
• Explore links between metacommunity theory and ecological networks.
• Contribute to the Horizon Europe BIOcean5D project and collaborate with CNRS partners.

Skills

Theoretical ecology

Evolutionary theory

Mathematics

Physics

English proficiency

Education

PhD in ecology or related field

Tools

R

Python

Mathematical modeling

Job description

Organisation/Company CNRS Department Station d'Ecologie Théorique et Expérimentale Research Field Biological sciences Environmental science Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Application Deadline 18 Nov 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Country France Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 4 Jan 2027 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

We are seeking a postdoctoral associate to contribute to the development of a theory on ecological scaling either across space of across levels of biological complexity.

• Developing analytical theory and/or simulation models on the spatial scaling on either species interaction networks, or on biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationships
• Establishing links between theories of metacommunities and ecological networks

This position is part of the Horizon Europe project “BIOcean5D: Marine Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning across spatial, temporal, and human scales”. The overall aim of the project is to acquire knowledge of the principles governing the structure, dynamics, resilience and evolution of marine life to develop solid theories and predictive models of the relationships between marine biodiversity and ecosystem functions, which will in turn lead to improved economic valuation and protection of marine life. The successful applicants will be part of this unique, ambitious and exciting project comprising over 30 partners in 11 countries. For more information on the project, visit https://www.biocean5d.org/ . The applicants will work on close collaboration with Jose M. Montoya, from CNRS.
The SETE (Theoretical and Experimental Ecology Station) is a Research Unit of the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS). It is located in the foothills of the central Pyrenees in Ariège, in Moulis, about 100km south from Toulouse. It currently hosts a team of 70 researchers, technicians, administrative staff and PhD students. The station focuses its research on exciting new developments in theoretical and experimental ecology, in particular on biodiversity, ecosystems and the interactions between human societies with a view to contributing to their long-term sustainability.

A strong theoretical background is required, with expertise in ecological and evolutionary theory, mathematics, or physics (Duration of the contract – 4 months). We seek highly motivated and creative individuals with a good command of the English language and with expertise in the areas mentioned.