Postdoctoral Researcher in Predictive Avifauna Modelling | Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/x) in Predictive Avifauna Modelling

Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung GmbH - UFZ

Leipzig, Sachsen, Deutschland
Published Jan 14, 2026
Full-time
Fixed-term

Job Summary

This role seeks a creative and highly skilled Ecological Modeler to join the newly established BirdFutures research group, focusing on developing cutting-edge bird diversity models and scenarios across Europe. The successful candidate will co-develop innovative biodiversity forecasting models, specifically dynamic habitat use models, to predict the impacts of policy and management options on avifauna. A core responsibility involves integrating diverse, multi-scale datasets, including fine-scale bird monitoring data and continental environmental data streams (e.g., climate projections, remote sensing). The position requires strong proficiency in quantitative ecology, high-performance computing, and spatial analysis, utilizing R and GIS software. The work is critical for informing major policy decisions, such as the EU Nature Restoration Law, and requires translating complex model outputs into actionable insights for diverse stakeholders (finance, business, conservation NGOs). This is an opportunity to define the future of predictive biodiversity conservation science in Europe within an international, interdisciplinary team.

Required Skills

Education

PhD in Quantitative Ecology, Computational Biology, Biogeography, Statistics, Applied System Science or a related field

Experience

  • PhD in Quantitative Ecology, Computational Biology, Biogeography, Statistics, Applied System Science or a related field
  • Strong background in developing models and scenarios of species distribution and diversity
  • Proven experience with FAIR science principles, including reproducible workflows and version control
  • Experience with diverse biodiversity data sets and heterogeneous data
  • Experience or strong interest in using High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments

Languages

German (Basic)English (Fluent)

Additional

  • Limited contract duration until October 31st, 2029. Location is Leipzig, Germany.