About the Position
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) invites applications for a fully funded PhD in conservation biology, focusing on Integrated Population Modelling for Black-Tailed Godwit Conservation. This four-year project aims to develop advanced population models to guide conservation decisions and reverse the decline of the Netherlands’ national bird, the black-tailed godwit.
The PhD combines field ecology, Bayesian modelling, and spatial population analysis within a collaboration between UvA and the University of Groningen. Based at the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), you’ll work under the supervision of Dr Eldar Rakhimberdiev, with access to the university’s cutting-edge facilities and high-performance computing.
This position offers a rare opportunity to integrate ecological data, quantitative analysis, and conservation policy in a globally significant research environment.
Position Details
- Position: PhD in Integrated Population Modelling for Black-Tailed Godwit Conservation
- Institution: University of Amsterdam (UvA)
- Department: Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED)
- Research Field: Zoology, Ecology, Biodiversity, Environmental Science
- Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fully Funded PhD (4 years)
- Start Date (Anticipated): 1 March 2026
- Working Hours: 38 hours per week
- Salary Range: €3,059 – €3,881/month (plus 8% holiday and 8.3% year-end allowance)
- Required Degree/Diploma: MSc
Research Area
- Zoology and Biodiversity
- Population Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Quantitative Ecology
- Environmental Data Modelling
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- MSc (or near completion) in ecology, zoology, environmental science, or quantitative biology
- Strong computational and statistical skills
- Fluency in written and spoken English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Familiarity with Bayesian modelling, Integrated Population Models (IPMs), and state-space models
- Experience with field ecology, bird handling, or ringing
- Interest in conservation management and population dynamics
- Valid European driving licence
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fieldwork and collect demographic data in Friesland
- Build and validate spatially explicit Integrated Population Models
- Integrate multi-source data (habitat, predation, survival, population counts)
- Design management scenarios and analyse policy impacts
- Write scientific papers and present at conferences
- Contribute to undergraduate and master’s teaching (up to 10%)
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application via the AcademicTransfer portal using the link below. Applications must include:
- Detailed CV (including dates of education and experience)
- Motivation letter
- List of publications (if applicable)
- Contact details of two referees
Required Documents: Single PDF file containing all materials.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 4 November 2025
- Deadline: 1 December 2025
- Interview Date: Shortly after the closing date
Useful Links
- Institution Website: University of Amsterdam (UvA)
- Official Notification Link: click here
- Apply Now: click here
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