Research Scientist and Curator (m/f/d) Soil Biodiversity Data

Senckenberg is committed to study the causes and effects of biodiversity loss in the Anthropocene. As part of our strategic development, we launched an ambitious long-term research effort in “Anthropocene Biodiversity Loss” encompassing the modules “Collectomics”, “Biodiversity Genomics”, and “Solution Labs”. Objectives include the transformation of natural history collections into the digital era, studying biodiversity from the genome to the ecosystem levels and offering exploratory spaces for science and society to develop common solutions to Anthropocene challenges.

Within this research effort, Senckenberg takes innovative steps in collection-based research and data science. The objective of “Collectomics” is to make current and future natural history collections digitally accessible and to improve integration and collaboration across regions, collections, and disciplines. This will enable broader, more holistic biodiversity research, for the benefit of people and nature.

The Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung with its head institute in Frankfurt (Main) is looking for the following person for the Senckenberg Museum for Natural History Görlitz, to start ideally June 1st , 2024

Research Scientist and Curator (m/f/d)

Soil Biodiversity Data

(Tenure Track / full-time, part-time options available )

Your tasks:

• Establishing a strong profile in research and modelling on the biology, (community) ecology, distribution and functions of soil organisms, within the context of Anthropocene Biodiversity Loss, and based on our digital data collections
• Initiation, active participation and management of research projects with the Soil Zoology department and its national and international network
• Active development and promotion of the international soil biodiversity warehouse “Edaphobase”, its analysis tools, connectivity with related databases; aiming at scenario development, monitoring and applied data-management
• Scientific curation of the soil biodiversity data collection in “Edaphobase”, the related websites and dissemination tools, coordination of the Management Board of Edaphobase
• Participation in teaching in the Msc programs “Organismic and Molecular Biodiversity” and “Ecosystem Services”
• Acquisition of third-party funding
• Publication of research results in high-ranking international scientific journals, participation in the Editorial Board of the scientific journal “Soil Organisms”

Your profile

• Doctoral degree in zoology, ecology, soil science or a related field
• Deep expertise in soil biodiversity research and expert knowledge of the ecology or systematics and integrative taxonomy of soil fauna, documented by publications in international peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Good knowledge in data science, databases, research-data management and data-quality criteria
• Expert knowledge in spatial and niche space biodiversity modelling, including data pipelines with external data and full command of relevant programming languages (at least R or Python)
• Experience in the acquisition of third-party funding and project management
• Fluency in English both spoken and written
• Motivation, commitment and the ability to develop and implement own research ideas
• Experience in guiding students, staff or entire workgroups
• Team spirit

Advantageous

• Knowledge of current policy developments regarding soil and soil-biodiversity health and protection in Germany (e.g., National Monitoring Centre, Soil Monitoring Centre, etc.), Europe (e.g., EU Soil Mission, current and planned directives) and globally (e.g. FAO initiatives such as the Global Soil Partnership)
• Knowledge of other national and international biodiversity, trait and soil databases and consortia
• Knowledge in a variety of laboratory techniques relevant for soil ecology and taxonomy
• Good knowledge of German or willingness to learn German

What is awaiting you?

• An attractive, responsible and challenging position in a globally recognized research institution with motivated and professional colleagues
• Flexible working hours – family-friendly working conditions (certified by the "audit berufundfamilie") – open and collegial environment – Senckenberg badge in connection with free admission to several museums – special annual payment (according to TV-L) – company pension scheme – 30 days holiday

Place of employment: Görlitz (Saxony), scope of employment: Full time (40 hours/week), optionally part-time 80% (32 hours/week), type of contract: Initially limited to 5 years (tenure track), remuneration: According to a public service position, TV-L E 13.

Senckenberg is committed to diversity. We benefit from the different expertise, perspectives and personalities of our staff and welcome every application from qualified candidates, irrespective of age, gender, ethnic or cultural origin, religion and ideology, sexual orientation and identity or disability. Women are underrepresented in the field of this position and will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability. Applicants with a severe disability will be given special consideration in case of equal suitability. Senckenberg actively supports the compatibility of work and family and places great emphasis on an equal and inclusive work culture.

You would like to apply?

Please submit your complete application package (including a brief cover letter detailing your research interests and experience (1 page), a CV and copies of your academic certificates) as one single PDF document mentioning the reference #08-24003 by 28th April 2024 to recruiting(at)senckenberg.de .

Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung          

Senckenberganlage 25

60325 Frankfurt a.M.

E-Mail: recruiting(at)senckenberg.de

For specific questions about this role please contact Prof. Anton Potapov: E-Mail Anton Potapov anton.potapov(at)senckenberg.de

For further information about the Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung please visit www.senckenberg.de .