Quantitative Invasion Biologist of the EVA 4.0 Project

Quantitative Invasion Biologist of the EVA 4.0 Project

Project “CZ.02.1.01/0.0/0.0/16_019/0000803”

JOB DESCRIPTION

Worldwide, thousands of insect species have invaded regions outside of the native ranges, often causing immense economic and ecological damage. In our laboratory, we analyse historical patterns of insect invasions with the objective of understanding the biological, abiotic and socioeconomic drivers of historical invasions. This information is critical to the development of more sound approaches to preventing future invasions.

We are seeking an individual to join our project “Advanced research supporting the forestry and wood-processing sector´s adaptation to global change and the 4th industrial revolution.” As a part of this project the individual will collaborate on the analysis of spatial and temporal patterns of historical insect invasions worldwide. Ideally, this individual should have a background working with quantitative analysis of biological diversity. The postdoc will need to apply that knowledge to design and implement statistical analyses documenting macroecological patterns. Some knowledge of insect diversity would be beneficial but is not required. Experience with statistical analysis and mathematical modelling (preferably using the R language) is desirable.

This work will be done in collaboration with Dr. Andrew Liebhold who is a scientific coordinator at Czech University of Life Sciences as well as a research scientist with the US Forest Service.

RESEARCH TASKS

· Review the literature on the global diversity of native and non-native insects

· Compile and refine data documenting historical insect invasions as well as diversity of native species

· Analyze field data using modern statistical methods.

· Write journal papers on research results.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

· Design and plan analyses

· Interact with other collaborators at the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague and other institutions

· Analyze data and publish results in scientific journals

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

1. Completed Ph.D. education

2. Knowledge of quantitative data analysis

3. Previous experience working with biodiversity / macroecology data

4. Previous experience in writing scientific articles, Excellent English language abilities

THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION SHOULD BE PROVIDED WITH THE APPLICATION

· Curriculum Vitae including publication list

· Letter of motivation

· List of at least 2 individuals who may be contacted as references

WE OFFER

· Working on a full-time position (18 months contract), with possibilities of extension

· Salary: 1 500 € per month (living expenses in Prague are low and University can provide subsidized housing)

· Place of work: Faculty of Forestry & Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences (CZU), Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague – Suchdol, Czech Rep. (EU)

· Participation in the creation of new centre for excellence research at the Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences CZUin Prague, Czech Republic

· Benefits of the CZUemployee (25 days of annual leave, subsidized meals and other)

· Work in a dynamic, international, cooperative and high professional quality team

· Extend research networks by participation in international conferences and presentation of research findings

· Working language in English

AREAS OF RESEARCH

· Ecology

· Invasion Biology

· Entomology

· Biogeography

EXPECTED STARTING DATE: Spring 2021

More information about the EVA 4.0 Project can be found on https://eva.fld.czu.cz/en

We are looking forward to your application.

Send your applications to arnoldova@fld.czu.cz by 1st of March 2021!

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague is committed to employment equality (esp. European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers) and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates fulfilling requirements specified in this announcement.