3 Postdoctoral Researcher Positions in Ecology at Senckenberg Society for Nature Research at Gelnhausen, Germany
Early-career ecologists with strong quantitative skills and an interest in large-scale biodiversity change have an excellent opportunity to join one of Europe’s most respected research institutions. The Senckenberg Society for Nature Research is hiring three Postdoctoral Researchers (Ecologists) (m/f/d) in its Department of River Ecology and Conservation in Gelnhausen. These positions offer the chance to work with some of the most comprehensive biodiversity datasets in Europe and to contribute to high-impact projects spanning freshwater ecology, biodiversity monitoring, and ecological data science.
The three Postdoctoral Researcher positions in Ecology at Senckenberg Society for Nature Research represent an outstanding opportunity for quantitative ecologists to work with exceptional biodiversity datasets and contribute to influential European research initiatives. For scientists interested in biodiversity change, ecological forecasting, and conservation, these roles offer both scientific impact and strong career development potential.
About Senckenberg and the Gelnhausen Research Hub
The Senckenberg Society for Nature Research is internationally recognized for biodiversity and Earth system research. Founded in 1817, the institution operates twelve sites across Germany and brings together scientists from more than 40 countries.
The Department of River Ecology and Conservation in Gelnhausen is a leading center for freshwater biodiversity research, ecological monitoring, and conservation science.
Research Areas of Interest
Senckenberg is looking for ecologists with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Broad-scale biodiversity change
- Community ecology
- Macroecology
- Metacommunity ecology
- Ecological time series analysis
- Freshwater ecology
- Conservation science
Major Research Projects
Successful candidates will contribute to one or more of three flagship projects.
1. Synthesis Center on Freshwater Biodiversity Change in Europe
The Synthesis Center assembles over 30,000 freshwater biodiversity time series from more than 30 European countries, covering:
- Fish
- Invertebrates
- Macrophytes
- Diatoms
- Benthic algae
The project investigates biodiversity change, multiple stressors, and conservation at continental scale.
2. EU Horizon Europe BEAGLE Project
BEAGLE (Biodiversity Methods for Advanced Monitoring at Large Scales) is a major policy-oriented project involving 17 partner institutions across Europe.
Key components include:
- eDNA monitoring
- Deployment of more than 1,000 automated field sensors
- AI-assisted biodiversity assessment
- Citizen science
- European-scale data integration
The project begins on 1 October 2026.
3. Biodiversity Meets Data (BMD)
The EU-funded BMD project develops Virtual Research Environments (VREs) that allow users to:
- Access biodiversity datasets
- Visualize ecological patterns
- Run predictive models
- Explore future climate and land-use scenarios
Candidates may contribute to tools such as interactive R Shiny applications.
Main Responsibilities
Postdoctoral researchers will:
- Contribute scientifically to one or more projects
- Manage and quality-control large biodiversity datasets
- Analyze spatial and temporal ecological data
- Prepare scientific manuscripts and project reports
- Mentor graduate students
- Present results at conferences
- Participate in project meetings and international collaborations
Required Qualifications
Applicants should have:
- PhD in Ecology or a related discipline
- Strong expertise relevant to at least one project area
- Advanced statistical programming skills in R
- Solid publication record for career stage
- Excellent written and spoken English
Preferred Skills
The following are advantageous:
- Project management experience
- Report writing experience
- Experience with large datasets
- Knowledge of biodiversity informatics
- Familiarity with reproducible workflows
Salary and Benefits
The positions are remunerated under TV-H E13, the salary scale of the State of Hesse.
Benefits include:
- Flexible working hours
- Mobile working options
- Annual special payment
- Paid vacation
- Company pension plan
- Free admission to Senckenberg museums
- International research networks
Why These Positions Are Highly Competitive
These roles provide access to:
- Continental-scale biodiversity datasets
- Major EU-funded collaborative projects
- Advanced ecological data science methods
- Interdisciplinary teams across Europe
- Mentoring and leadership opportunities
For ecologists interested in large-scale biodiversity analysis and evidence-based conservation, these positions offer substantial scientific and career value.
Living and Working in Gelnhausen
Gelnhausen is a historic town near Frankfurt known for its medieval architecture and excellent quality of life.
Advantages include:
- Easy access to Frankfurt am Main
- Lower living costs than major cities
- Strong research environment
- Scenic landscapes and outdoor opportunities
Application Documents Required
Combine the following into one PDF file:
- Cover letter explaining your suitability
- Detailed CV
- Contact details for two referees
- Publication list
- List of acquired funding
How to Apply
Submit your application through APPLY NOW and cite Reference #04-26003. Application Deadline: 31 May 2026
Contact Information
Scientific inquiries: Prof. Dr. Peter Haase
Email: peter.haase@senckenberg.de
Postal Address:
Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung
Senckenberganlage 25
60325 Frankfurt am Main
Germany
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many positions are available?
There are three postdoctoral positions available.
What is the contract duration?
The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of extension.
What salary does TV-H E13 provide?
TV-H E13 is the standard postdoctoral salary scale in Hesse and includes social security, pension contributions, and paid leave.
Which programming language is required?
Advanced skills in R are essential.
Can I indicate a preferred project?
Yes. Applicants are encouraged to mention which project(s) they would prefer to work on.
Is experience with biodiversity big data necessary?
Yes, strong skills in managing and analyzing large ecological datasets are central to the role.
Will I supervise students?
Yes. Mentoring graduate students is part of the position.
Are international applicants welcome?
Absolutely. Senckenberg welcomes qualified applicants from around the world.
Where is Gelnhausen located?
Gelnhausen is a historic town in Hesse, approximately 40 kilometers east of Frankfurt.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 31 May 2026.
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