About us:

We study the phylogeny, evolution, ecology and systematics of various angiosperm families. A special focus lies on biogeography, hybridization, adaptation and the evolution of complex traits. We base our research on field studies, experimental as well as phylogenomic and genomic approaches integrating the rich collections of the Botanical State Collection Munich and the Botanical Garden Munich (both belong to the Natural History Collections of Bavaria).

The endangered flora of Bavaria and in particular its alpine species and their protection are important to us. Therefore, we now broaden our research by investigating the ecology, adaptation and population genomics of endangered plant taxa in Bavaria. We aim to identify the factors causing their decline in the last 200 years by including both historical and extant populations. Population genomic and phylogeographic analyses will try to elucidate where and when the endangered Bavarian populations originated. Most importantly, comparison of historical and extant populations will show which genotypes survived. We seek to infer the adaptive advantages of the survivors using genomic comparative analyses. This will allow us to understand whether habitat fragmentation or land use changes on the one hand or changes in selective regime such as climate change on the other hand were the driving factor of the decline. This is important information for understanding the current situation of endangered species and for assessing their potential for reintroduction.

We are looking for you:

Researcher - Ecology, adaptation and population genomics of endangered plant taxa in Bavaria (m/f/x)

in Munich

Your tasks and responsibilities:

• Independently develop and conduct research projects in the area outlined above
• Lead a small research group (technical assistance, horticulturists) and acquisition of further funding
• Manage and analyse research data, publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals, present research results at (inter)national conferences
• Participate in teaching in topics related to fields of biodiversity analyses, ecology, and conservation genetics
• Supervise students at the Bachelor-, Master-, and PhD level
• Develop and implement projects of public outreach related to the research topic
• Commitment to further academic qualification (habilitation or equivalent)

Your qualifications:

• Completed university degree in Biology and Doctoral degree in a relevant field (e.g., population genomics, plant ecology, conservation)
• Strong background in genomics and bioinformatics/statistics
• Experience in state-of-the-art molecular laboratory techniques
• Experience in designing and conducting ecological field experiments
• Background in floristic work, preferentially in the alpine regions
• Knowledge of plant ecology
• Experience with funding-acquisition and/or teaching is advantageous
• Experience in leadership and supervising both technical and scientific staff is advantageous
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and German
• Driving licence

Benefits:

We offer a stimulating research environment in highly motivated international team. Your workplace is located at two sites. Living collections and experimental fields are based in a satellite research station near Wolfratshausen. Office, laboratories, experimental greenhouse and further research facilities are located at the Institute of Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution of Plants, LMU Munich (Menzinger Str. 67, Munich). For transport and field work, a staff car will available. We offer flexible working hours, support in balancing work and family life, and professional training and personal development activities through a variety of LMU support services. In addition you can benefit from various LMU corporate benefits.

The position is remunerated in accordance with the collective agreement of the federal states (TV-L) in salary group E13 (100%). The position is initially limited to three years with a possibility for extension for additional three years. You have the possibility to work towards the completion of a habilitation (German post-doctoral degree) at the Faculty of Biology.

Also possible in a part-time capacity.

Contact:

Please send your application documents (letter of motivation, CV, list of publications and list of teaching experience, two-page research concept, contact details of three references, copies of degree certificates and transcripts) in one PDF via e-mail to Prof. Dr. Gudrun Kadereit no later than 31.01.2025.

For questions about the advertised position please contact Prof. Dr. Gudrun Kadereit.

Also kindly let us know briefly in your cover letter through which medium/website/etc. you became aware of our job advertisement.

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