Postdoctoral Position:
Functional traits across trophic levels and ecosystem processes in the
Arctic
Centre for Polar Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of South
Bohemia, Czech Republic
We are seeking a highly motivated and productive POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER
for a
study on the functional traits of three organism levels, i.e. plants,
soil fauna and soil
microorganisms, and their joint effect on ecosystem processes and
functions mainly related to
carbon turnover. The project employs the natural lack of one important
animal group (coarse
litter fragmentators) and their effect on ecosystem functions in
relation to community trait
diversity and specific functional traits.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful applicant will participate on research of functional
traits (mainly plant), which
includes management of field experiments and cooperation on lab
experiments. S/he will
perform analyses of collected data of all three organism levels. S/he
will be responsible for
presentation and publication of results. The project is based on a
interactive teamwork with
the project partners. The fieldwork will be conducted at Joseph Svoboda
Station, Spitsbergen
once a year
(http://polar.prf.jcu.cz/data/uploads/arctic-research-infrastructure.pdf).
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION
PhD in ecology or a related field
Strong skills in ecological synthesis
A proven record of research and publication
Highly developed written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency in statistical and other analysis of data, possibly in R
Ability to work safely and with a well developed understanding of
safety procedures
required under field conditions
Strong motivation and resilience in challenging Arctic environments
FORM OF EMPLOYMENT
The position is available for up to 2.5 years starting in 2 May 2017
with annual renewal
dependent on satisfactory performance. Salary: 360.000 CZK per annum
(note that cost of
living in Czech Republic is 65% of the UK cost). The position includes
full benefits. The
position will remain open until filled with review of applications
starting 14 March 2017.
The position will be with Dr Petr Macek
(http://polar.prf.jcu.cz/people?name=petr-macek)
and Dr Francesco de Bello
(http://www.butbn.cas.cz/francesco/Webpage/Home_-.html) at the
University of South Bohemia, Czech Republic.
YOUR APPLICATION
Applications and inquiries should be sent to Alex Bernardova
([email protected])
no later than 14 March 2017 (8 am GMT). Applications should include a
CV, statement of
research interests and expertise, names and contact details of three
referees; Please ask the
referees to send us their letters of recommendation directly; the
letters should be directed to
[email protected].
Dr. Petr Macek
Centre for Polar Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of South
Bohemia, Na Zlate stoce 3,
37005 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic. Tel. +420 387 776 303
e-mail: [email protected] ; URL:
http://polar.prf.jcu.cz/people?name=petr-macek
