Trait-based modeling of biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationships in grasslands

The goal of the project is to explore to what extent patterns of plant trait variation explain mechanisms underlying the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Statistical and mechanistic models will be constructed to test existing and novel hypotheses using the vast amount of information on plant species traits and ecosystem functions available through past and future activities within the Jena Experiment (http://www.the-jena-experiment.de). Complementary trait data will be measured in greenhouse experiments. Modelling approaches include multivariate canonical and hierarchical Bayesian models. As a mechanistic complement the grassland model GEMINI will be used.

The applicants should have a background in ecology or environmental sciences and a strong interest in quantitative techniques and plant functions. They should be excellent team-players, fluent in English and have the ambition to publish in international journals. Programming experience and proficiency in the above-mentioned statistical methods would be a plus.

The activities of the department cover a wide range of topics and methods in functional biodiversity research (see http://alfresco.uni-leipzig.de/spezbot/). The position is available immediately. The envisaged duration of employment (50% TVL 13) is three years. Severely disabled persons are encouraged to apply and will be given preference in the case of equal aptitudes.

For best consideration, please send your application, including a statement of your research interests and qualifications, curriculum vitae, copies of your certificates, and contact details of three academic referees before 30.06.2010 to: Prof. Christian Wirth, Institut für Biologie I, Johannis-Allee 21-23, 04103 Leipzig or via e-mail as a single pdf-file to cwirth@uni-leipzig.de.