Postdoc position: biotic interactions in explaining species distribution patterns

Postdoc: biotic interactions in explaining species distribution patterns (f/m/d)

For the Department of Ecosystem Research of IGB in Berlin we are inviting applications for the position of a postdoctoral researcher starting as soon as possible.

The position will be embedded in the Collaborative Research Center 1439 RESIST (“Multilevel response to stressor increase and release in stream ecosystems”). The successful candidate will lead research efforts to model and project freshwater biodiversity patterns, utilizing both spatial and statistical expertise. At this stage of the subproject of the CRC the project aims to evaluate whether ecological patterns previously identified in the RESIST model catchments (Kinzig and Boye catchments) are consistent across a broader set of river catchments that encompass higher environmental variability, larger species pools, longer time series, and differing spatial resolutions.

Using catchment-scale ecological and water quality data, the project aims to assess how abiotic drivers, biotic interactions, and stochastic processes jointly shape species occurrences along gradients of anthropogenic stress. Additionally, dispersal and connectivity information will be included to enhance SDM performance. Our aim is to integrate abiotic and biotic factors, assessing model performance, and analyzing the influence of different drivers on the distribution of species across different degradation gradients.

• Compile, harmonise, and curate larger-scale ecological, biological, land-use, and water quality datasets across Germany; perform model calibration using existing data and iteratively update models as new datasets become available
• Analyse freshwater species occurrence patterns along gradients of environmental stress to quantify the relative roles of abiotic drivers, species interactions, and stochastic effects; validate species–environment relationships at finer spatial scales and compare patterns across catchments representing different levels of ecological degradation.
• Lead high-quality papers in this research area
• Contribute to the projects’ interim reports and application for a 3rd phase of the CRC.
• Collaborate with other team members, including supervising students and sharing skills.
• Document workflows, ensure reproducibility of analyses

• A PhD e.g. in environmental science, ecology or related fields of biology or geography (or equivalent), or you have submitted your PhD thesis for assessment
• Essential is experience with handling and harmonizing large and variable datasets, statistical analysis, species / habitat distribution modelling, use of R/Python, GIS, preferably open source GIS (e.g. QGIS, GRASS)
• Essential is publication experience
• Essential is a strong interest in working with aquatic organisms (diatoms, aquatic invertebrates, fish)
• Essential are very good verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Willingness to cooperate within RESIST and develop cooperation with scientists within the CRC

We offer an interesting position in an international and dynamic scientific environment. We foster flat hierarchies and active participation. We allow maximum individual freedom, enabling everyone to develop and use their creativity to the best of their abilities.

The position will be embedded in the DFG-funded CRC RESIST Phase II program, creating a superb scientific network. RESIST is coordinated by the University of Duisburg-Essen with the participation of the Ruhr-University of Bochum, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ), and IGB.

Salary is paid according to the German salary scheme for the public sector (TVöD Bund, E13) offering a wide range of benefits, including…