Head of Zoology Division and Curator of Invertebrate Collections (excluding Insects) | Leitung des Referats Zoologie (m/w/d) und Kurator*in für die Wirbellosen-Sammlungen (ohne Insekten)

Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Karlsruhe

Karlsruhe, Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Deutschland
Published Oct 10, 2025
Full-time
Permanent

Job Summary

This pivotal role involves serving as the Head of the Zoology Division and the dedicated Curator for the museum's significant Invertebrate Collections (excluding insects), with a strong focus on Arachnology, particularly European spiders. The successful candidate will provide scientific and personnel leadership for the division, including managing the curator of vertebrate collections, while actively curating, digitizing, and expanding the invertebrate specimens. A key responsibility is driving independent research projects, successfully acquiring third-party funding, and contributing to interdisciplinary research challenges like digitization and modern science communication. Candidates must possess a PhD in Zoology or Ecology, outstanding species knowledge, and proven experience in collection and data management within a research museum setting. The position requires strong leadership capabilities, fluent German and advanced English skills, and active participation in exhibitions and public outreach efforts, making it ideal for a research leader passionate about biodiversity and public engagement.

Required Skills

Education

PhD in Zoology and/or Ecology; University Degree in Biology or comparable discipline (Zoology focus)

Experience

  • Several years in collection and data management, preferably at a natural history research museum
  • Successful publication activity
  • Experience in third-party funding acquisition
  • Ability to build and lead teams
  • Professional experience in taxonomic expertise, especially European spiders

Languages

German (Fluent)English (Intermediate)

Additional

  • Taxonomic expertise in European Web Spiders (Araneae)