About the Position
Senckenberg – Leibniz Institution for Biodiversity and Earth System Research (SGN), headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, is seeking to fill a funded Postdoc position in vegetation and ecosystem modelling within Biodiversity and Earth System Research at the Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. This exciting academic opportunity focuses on vegetation dynamics, biodiversity modelling, and climate–ecosystem interactions across East African mountain systems.
The successful candidate will join the ERC Synergy project AFRI-CAN and work closely with an interdisciplinary research team combining ecology, geography, archaeology, and economics. Moreover, the researcher will adapt and develop the LPJ-GUESS Dynamic Global Vegetation Model. The work integrates palaeoecological datasets, climate reconstructions, and land-use history for deeper ecosystem understanding.
Applicants must hold a PhD in Ecology, Geography, Environmental Sciences, Environmental Physics or related fields. Strong programming skills in data analysis and modelling are essential, preferably including C or C++. In addition, experience in ecosystem modelling, biodiversity research, and interdisciplinary collaboration is highly valued. The role also requires excellent scientific communication and publication experience.
This is a full-time Postdoctoral position for 3 + 3 years starting as soon as possible, offering a competitive TV-H E13 salary. Furthermore, it provides international collaboration, conference participation, and strong career development in a globally recognised research environment.
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Position Details
- Position: Postdoc in Vegetation and Ecosystem Modelling (m/f/d)
- Institution: Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Germany
- Department: Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (SBiK-F)
- Research Field: Ecosystem Modelling, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Vegetation Dynamics
- Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Thomas Hickler
- Location: Frankfurt am Main
- Country: Germany
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Research Position (Full-time / Part-time options)
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: As soon as possible
- Working Hours: Full-time (part-time optional)
- Salary / Funding: TV-H E13 (collective agreement of State Hesse)
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Research Area
- Vegetation and ecosystem modelling
- Biodiversity–climate interactions
- Dynamic Global Vegetation Models (LPJ-GUESS)
- Nature’s Contributions to People (NCPs)
- Palaeoecology and land-use change
- East African mountain social-ecological systems
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- PhD in Ecology / Geography / Environmental Sciences / Environmental Physics
- Strong programming and data analysis skills
- Experience in ecological or ecosystem modelling
- Good publication record in scientific journals
- Excellent English communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- C or C++ programming experience
- Familiarity with LPJ-GUESS or similar models
- Experience with palaeoecological or climate datasets
- Interdisciplinary collaboration experience
- Knowledge of biodiversity and ecosystem services
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Key Responsibilities
- Adapt LPJ-GUESS vegetation model to East African region
- Integrate palaeo data including pollen, charcoal, and climate proxies
- Analyse ecosystem resilience under climate and human pressures
- Develop biodiversity and NCP indicators from model outputs
- Design empirical models for ecosystem services and crop yields
- Collaborate with social scientists and stakeholders on scenario development
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents through the official Senckenberg portal before the deadline. Ensure all materials are combined into a single PDF file.
Required Documents
- Statement of interest and motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae with publication list
- Details of programming and modelling experience
- Academic certificates and credentials
- Contact details of two referees
- Single compiled PDF application
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 17 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible
Where to Apply
- University/Institution: Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung | Senckenberg Naturforschung
- Department: Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre
- Job ID: #11-26012
- Official Information Source: Leibniz Association Careers Portal
- Apply Link: Leibniz Association: Detail – Postdoc in vegetation and ecosystem modelling (m/f/d)
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research positions, international collaboration, and advanced ecosystem modelling careers in Germany and across global biodiversity research networks.
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