PhD scholarship in Sustainable Development and Climate Change

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student in Sustainable Development and Climate Change, with particular interest in biodiversity, ecosystem functions and global change biology.

Starting date: 01.12.2022

Position duration: 3 years

Work location: University of Milan, Italy

Thesis description:

An iconic sign of global warming is the retreat and extinction of glaciers worldwide. However, lack of comprehensive system-level studies impairs our ability to predict the fate of biodiversity and the functioning of ecosystems in front of retreating glaciers. To address such challenges, it is crucial to go beyond the traditional approach of examining individual species in isolation and overcoming the difficulties associated with addressing complex biogeochemical cycles and socio-ecological processes. Our objective is to (1) Understand the evolution of ecosystem functioning and their benefits to society; (2) Develop predictive models of ecosystem functioning, and (3) Design systemic nature-based interventions for mitigating the risk of ecosystem functioning collapse.

A PhD position is open in the Biodiversity Change group of Gianalberto Losapio and Plant Biology group of Marco Caccianiga at University of Milan. This scholarship is funded by the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) of the Next Generation EU Fund. The candidate will be enrolled in the PhD school in Sustainable Development and Climate Change, curriculum ‘Health and Ecosystems’. The PhD student will develop their own research thesis within the project ‘Forecasting the consequences of glacier extinction for ecosystem functioning’. They will work in a multicultural, diverse, collaborative, and dynamic environment. We provide great opportunities for academic and professional training as well as acquisition of transversal skills. We offer stimuli for developing critical thinking and to become an independent scientist. In all, we are both professional and empathic. Salary and benefits are internationally competitive.

Candidate profile:

We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic, and independent student with passion for nature and science. Talented students with a master degree in biodiversity, environmental sciences, ecology, or plant sciences interested in taking an integrative approach are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants are expected to have fieldwork experience and good quantitative skills. A high level of written and spoken English proficiency is required.

Application documents:

Please send your application including: (1) Curriculum Vitae, indicating education, qualifications and training path, research and work experience, list of publications, academic and professional experience (2000 words); (2) Research Proposal including abstract, research scope and questions, methodology, expected results and impact (1000-2500 words); (3) Letter of Purpose specifying your motivations, interests, relevant skills and experience (500 words); (4) Degree Certificate, Diploma Supplement or Transcript of records. In your application, specify the ‘CU6.02’ research topic.

You can find more information at https://www.phd-sdc.it/

Only applications submitted via the following platform will be considered https://iusspavia.esse3.cineca.it/

For informal inquiries do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected] and [email protected]

For further information please contact [email protected]

Application deadline:

5 August 2022 at 1 pm CET