Postdoc position in ecological modelling

The research group Ecology at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland invites applications for a fully funded postdoc position in ecological modelling in the context of global change.

Current environmental changes are causing major shifts in the physical environment, which may in turn fundamentally alter the functioning of ecosystems. Mountain ecosystems have remained relatively natural so far but are especially affected as they are warming faster than the global average. Most plant species in these regions are therefore shifting their distributions to track the climatic conditions they are adapted to, but the vast majority is lagging behind climatic trends. This implies that even if climate change was halted now, its effects would likely continue. Yet, the so-called relaxation time of these accrued lags, i.e. how long it would take to reach a new equilibrium, remains unknown.

Your position

The successful candidate will focus on modelling the relaxation times of accrued lags of plant species across Europe's mountain ranges. These computations will be based on a spatially explicit dataset established by the research group that comprises species-specific shifts and lags over the last decades. They are expected to collaborate closely with other team members and researchers from other institutions, will co-supervise PhD and MSc students, and contribute to teaching and other research activities of the research group.

Your profile

The successful candidate should have very good skills in statistical analyses and modelling (preferably in R) as well as in handling large databases. Previous experience in mountain plant ecology or in analyzing species' range shifts in response to climate change would be assets. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a self-organized and solution-oriented work attitude. Applicants should hold a PhD degree in ecology, botany, biogeography, environmental science, computational biology or related fields. Excellent written and spoken English, a proven track record, strong communication and organization skills, the ability to work in teams and a commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace are essential. Experience in supervision is a plus.

We offer you

A fully funded postdoc position for two years in a dynamic research group in the international and interdisciplinary Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland. You will join a supportive and collaborative working environment. Internationally competitive salaries and social benefits are provided according to the rules of the University of Basel, the oldest university in Switzerland. Basel is a vibrant city located at the border with France and Germany and has a high quality of life. Courses to improve hard and soft skills, as well as career development opportunities are available.

Application / Contact

Please upload your application via our online platform. It should include: a motivation letter stating your research interests, fit to the profile and motivation for applying for the position (max. 2 pages), a CV including a publication list with citation numbers, a copy of your PhD degree, and the contact details of 3 references including your relation to them. Candidates who cannot yet provide an official PhD degree may instead submit a statement when they expect to obtain it. Reference letters are not required.

We especially encourage applications from women and from persons underrepresented in academic research. Application deadline is November 19, 2026, and only online applications submitted via the recruiting platform will be considered. For further questions please contact Prof. Dr. Sabine Rumpf (sabine.rumpf@unibas.ch).