Postdoctoral position in modeling of eco-evolutionary community dynamics (m/f/x)

The research group ‘Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics’ at the Department of Evolutionary and Integrative Ecology of IGB invites applications for a 2-year postdoctoral position in modeling of eco-evolutionary community dynamics starting as soon as possible. The research group is located in Berlin-Friedrichshagen at Lake Müggelsee. We are seeking a highly motivated person who has a keen interest in theoretical questions about eco-evolutionary dynamics and has a passion for science.

The postdoctoral position is part of a DFG project and centres around addressing questions on eco-evolutionary dynamics of multi-species communities using theoretical modeling approaches. The candidate will focus on developing a mathematical model (e.g., preferably individual-based models) from basic equations to investigate questions at the interface of community ecology and evolutionary biology. The project's main objective will be to test how interactions between specific processes of community ecology (species sorting, ecological drift and dispersal) and evolutionary biology (selection, genetic drift and gene flow) shape eco-evolutionary community dynamics.

Your role

• Develop a theoretical model (e.g., individual-based, analytical differential equations) to tackle novel questions on eco-evolutionary dynamics in future scenarios of environmental change.
• Report results in scientific publication(s) and conference(s).

Your profile

• Completed PhD degree in mathematical modeling preferably in the field of evolutionary ecology.
• Experience with developing mathematical models preferably in the field of evolutionary ecology (e.g., individual-based models).
• Experience with modeling trait evolution is desirable.
• Experience with building a mathematical model from basic equations is a benefit.
• Demonstration of leading scientific publications.
• The working language of the group is English, and suitable reading, writing (including scientific writing) and speaking skills are required.
• Engaged person with a team-spirit.

Our offer

We offer an interesting position in an international and dynamic scientific environment. We foster flat hierarchies and active participation. We allow maximum individual freedom, enabling everyone to develop and use their creativity to the best of their abilities. The position is for 2 years with a starting date as soon as possible. Salary is paid according to the German salary scheme for the public sector (TVöD Bund E13). It is an 80-100% position with up to 39 working hours per week. 

We foster your career development by providing qualification and training opportunities. We actively support the reconciliation of work and family life . Given our commitment to diversity , we welcome all applications, regardless of gender and gender identity, origin, nationality, religion, belief, health and physical disabilities, age or sexual orientation. IGB is committed to increasing the number of women in this field, therefore applications from women are particularly welcome. Various measures are in place at IGB to support gender equality . Applicants with a disability will be given preference if they are equally qualified.

Are you interested?

We look forward to receiving your application by 20.04.2025 with the usual documents (1-page cover letter, CV, certificates/ references/letters of recommendation). Please state the job reference number 08/2025 and apply exclusively via our recruitment platform at www.igb-berlin.de/en/jobs .

Questions can be directed to Dr. Lynn Govaert by e-mail (lynn.govaert(at)igb-berlin.de ).

"Research for the future of our freshwaters" is the mission of IGB – Germany’s largest and one of the leading international centres for freshwater research. In order to investigate different aspects of freshwater ecosystems, their biota and societal relevance, we unit a wide range of disciplines and understand research as a joint effort. With more than 350 employees and guests from all over the world, we conduct research at five locations in Berlin and at Lake Stechlin (Brandenburg). IGB is part of the German Leibniz Association and the Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V. www.igb-berlin.de