5 doctoral researcher positions 4th iDiv Flexpool Call

iDiv, the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research Halle-Jena-Leipzig, invites applications to 5 doctoral researcher positions from October 2020 onwards for candidates who have a strong background in integrative biodiversity research and are keen to develop scientific networks. They will play a vital part in enhancing iDiv’s scientific strategy and sharpening the research profile of iDiv in key thematic areas.

iDiv is a national research centre funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). It is located in the city of Leipzig and it is a central institution of the Leipzig University, jointly hosted by the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena and the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ). The scientific consortium is further enhanced by the expertise of other research institutions, including several Max Planck Society institutes and the Leibniz Association. More information about iDiv: www.idiv.de.

Specifically, we offer the following positions, which are detailed on www.idiv.de/about_idiv/career:
1. Project “Traversing the canopy – how do transport processes of microbes and matter shape phyllosphere microbial communities?”, Dr. Martina Herrmann (Affiliation FSU Jena)

2. Project “Detecting long-term functional changes in biodiversity: boosting analyses of herbarium specimens using spectroscopic methods (FunSpec)”, Professor Karsten Wesche (Affiliation SMNG/FSU Jena)

3. Project “Macroecology and macroevolution of plant – frugivore trait matching in the tropics”, Dr. Renske Onstein (Affiliation UL Leipzig)

4. Project “Identifying drivers of intra- and interspecific leaf trait variation in space and time from digitized herbarium specimen using computer vision approaches”, Dr. Jens Kattge (Affiliation MPI- BGC/FSU Jena)

5. Project “Understanding soil biodiversity: Using the new functional framework for root traits (Root Economics Space) to predict soil-borne fungal communities in grasslands (RESfun)”, Professor Alexandra Weigelt (Affiliation UL Leipzig)

We offer:
– Work in a dynamic, international and interdisciplinary environment
– Opportunities to develop and advance scientific networks
– Cutting edge research in modern facilities
– Doctoral researchers at iDiv benefit from an inter- and transdisciplinary training and support by the graduate school yDiv
– Attractive benefits, e.g. contributions to capital formation, job-ticket for public transport, company pension scheme (VBL)
– Family-friendly working environment with flexible working hours
– Salary in accordance with the German public service salary scale (up to
TV-L E13, 65 % of a full-time position)

We seek:
Highly motivated scientists with a strong interest to participate in sharpening the iDiv research profile. German skills are not a prerequisite for all positions, but very good command of English is necessary. Applicants must hold a Master degree or equivalent in a relevant field. The employment contract is initially limited until 30 September 2021. An extension for further 2-3 years is possible and dependent upon successful renewal of DFG funding for iDiv (evaluation in spring 2021).