Organisation/Company
University of Basel
Research Field
Biological sciences » Biology Biological sciences » Botany Biological sciences » Other Environmental science » Earth science Environmental science » Ecology Geography » Other
Researcher Profile
Recognised Researcher (R2)
Application Deadline
19 Nov 2026 - 22:59 (UTC)
Country
Switzerland
Type of Contract
Temporary
Job Status
Full-time
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
The research group Ecology at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland invites applications for a fully funded postdoc position in ecological modelling in the context of global change.
Current environmental changes are causing major shifts in the physical environment, which may in turn fundamentally alter the functioning of ecosystems. Mountain ecosystems have remained relatively natural so far but are especially affected as they are warming faster than the global average. Most plant species in these regions are therefore shifting their distributions to track the climatic conditions they are adapted to, but the vast majority is lagging behind climatic trends. This implies that even if climate change was halted now, its effects would likely continue. Yet, the so‑called relaxation time of these accrued lags, i.e. how long it would take to reach a new equilibrium, remains unknown.
The successful candidate will focus on modelling the relaxation times of accrued lags of plant species across Europe's mountain ranges. These computations will be based on a spatially explicit dataset established by the research group that comprises species-specific shifts and lags over the last decades. They are expected to collaborate closely with other team members and researchers from other institutions, will co‑supervise PhD and MSc students, and contribute to teaching and other research activities of the research group.
The successful candidate should have very good skills in statistical analyses and modelling (preferably in R) as well as in handling large databases. Previous experience in mountain plant ecology or in analyzing species’ range shifts in response to climate change would be assets. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a self‑organized and solution‑oriented work attitude. Applicants should hold a PhD degree in ecology, botany, biogeography, environmental science, computational biology or related fields. Excellent written and spoken English, a proven track record, strong communication and organization skills, the ability to work in teams and a commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace are essential. Experience in supervision is a plus.
A fully funded postdoc position for two years in a dynamic research group in the international and interdisciplinary Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland. You will join a supportive and collaborative working environment. Internationally competitive salaries and social benefits are provided according to the rules of the University of Basel, the oldest university in Switzerland. Basel is a vibrant city located at the border with France and Germany and has a high quality of life. Courses to improve hard and soft skills, as well as career development opportunities are available.
We especially encourage applications from women and from persons underrepresented in academic research.
For further questions please contact Prof. Dr. Sabine Rumpf ( ).
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Postdoc position in ecological modelling Arbeitgeber: University of Basel
Die Universität Basel bietet eine inspirierende Arbeitsumgebung für angehende Wissenschaftler, die sich in der Literaturforschung engagieren möchten. Mit einem Fokus auf innovative Projekte und der Unterstützung bei der Suche nach Folgefinanzierungen fördert die Universität nicht nur die akademische Exzellenz, sondern auch das persönliche Wachstum ihrer Mitarbeiter. Die offene und kollaborative Kultur ermöglicht es den Stipendiaten, wertvolle Erfahrungen zu sammeln und sich in einem dynamischen Umfeld weiterzuentwickeln.
