About the Program
The University of Göttingen invites applications for a PhD in Conservation Biology and Ecology titled “Ecosystem effects of large herbivores on the Eurasian steppes” at the Department of Conservation Biology. This doctoral position focuses on examining how wild, reintroduced, and domestic large herbivores shape biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, and grazing dynamics across the Eurasian and Kazakh steppes, a globally significant grassland system. The research addresses key challenges related to pastoralism, global change, and human–wildlife interactions. The PhD will be supervised by Prof. Johannes Kamp, with international co-supervision from Dr Erick Lundgren (University of Alberta) and Jonas Trepel (University of Aarhus). Embedded within the RePasKa project, the research integrates meta-analysis, field experiments, biodiversity surveys, and quantitative ecological analysis. The position is based in Göttingen, Germany, with extensive fieldwork in Kazakhstan, and is expected to start in May 2026.
Program Details
- Position: Doctoral Researcher (PhD Position)
- Institution: University of Göttingen
- Department/Faculty: Department of Conservation Biology
- Supervisor: Prof. Johannes Kamp
- Location: Göttingen, Germany
- Start Date (Anticipated): May 2026
- Duration: 3 years
- Funding: Funded PhD position (65% employment, E13 TV-L salary scale)
- Working Hours: 26 hours per week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent in Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Zoology, Geography, Landscape Ecology, or a closely related field
Where Did We Come From? Turn the Page and See
Research Focus / Area
- Grazing ecology and ecosystem functioning
- Biodiversity responses to large herbivores
- Eurasian and Kazakh steppe ecosystems
- Global change biology and conservation science
- Human–wildlife interactions
- Meta-analysis and quantitative ecological modelling
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
- Strong background in ecology or environmental science
- Advanced quantitative skills and experience with R or similar software
- Excellent English language proficiency (written and spoken)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with meta-analysis or large ecological datasets
- Field experience with invertebrate or plant biodiversity surveys
- Knowledge of grazing systems or arid ecosystems
- Experience working in remote field conditions
- Knowledge of Kazakh or Russian is an advantage
Key Features of the Program
- International and interdisciplinary research environment
- Extensive fieldwork in Kazakhstan
- Collaboration with German and Kazakhstani institutions
- Training in advanced ecological methods and data analysis
- Opportunities for peer-reviewed publications and conferences
- Supportive and inclusive academic workplace
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted by email as a single combined PDF file.
Required Documents:
- Copies of academic certificates
- Motivation letter outlining relevant experience
- Curriculum Vitae, including publications if applicable
- Short writing sample (e.g. MSc thesis excerpt)
- Contact details of two academic referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: December 2025
- Deadline: 28 February 2026
- Start Date: May 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Göttingen
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: Applications via email to alamber@gwdg.de
Learn about more PhD opportunities: click here
