Job Description

The research group Ecology at the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Basel in Switzerland invites applications for a postdoc position within the ERC project 'Global status, trends, drivers and impacts of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems' (GloNoMo), in collaboration with the Global Observation Research Initiative in Alpine Environments (GLORIA) and the Mountain Invasion Research Network (MIREN).



Project description

The biodiversity crisis is in part driven by invasive species, yet many non-natives are only recognized as invasive once they are widespread. A key challenge is thus to identify which non-native species may spread into natural ecosystems before their eradication becomes unfeasible. Mountain ecosystems remained comparatively natural so far and are thought to be minimally affected, but non-native plants are spreading upslope along roads and trails. However, it remains unknown whether non-native plant species already occur in undisturbed habitats, which species have the potential to spread, which drivers besides roads and trails are decisive, and which species should be classified as invasive. GloNoMo will address these gaps by combining field observations, experiments, and macroecological analyses using so far untapped global monitoring data across all populated continents.

Your position

The successful candidate will focus on macroecological analyses of non-native plant species in mountain ecosystems based on a novel global dataset. In addition, the candidate is expected to join field campaigns in the Swiss Alps and will have the opportunity to develop their own research questions. 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 Ecology.

Your profile

Applicants should hold a PhD degree in ecology, botany, biogeography, environmental science, computational biology or related fields. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a self-organized and solution-oriented work attitude. Strong communication and organizational skills, the ability to work in teams and a commitment to a collegial and inclusive workplace are essential. Candidates should be highly skilled in macroecological analyses and handling large datasets. Very good written and spoken English is a must. Candidates should be able and willing to conduct fieldwork in the Swiss Alps, have experience and knowledge in plant species identification, and hold a valid driver's license. Experience in GIS, project management and supervision is a plus.

We offer you

A five-year postdoc position 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, and will be integrated in the international research networks GLORIA and MIREN. Internationally competitive salaries and social benefits are provided according to the rules of the University of Basel, the oldest university in Switzerland. Basel is an international city located at the border to 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. We especially encourage applications from women and from persons underrepresented in academic research. Review of applications will begin on October 13, 2025 but will continue until the position is filled. Only online applications submitted through the recruiting platform will be considered. For further questions please contact Prof. Sabine Rumpf (sabine.rumpf@unibas.ch)
Apply