The Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F) has been founded in 2008 by the Senckenberg Gesellschaft fuer Naturforschung, the Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, the Institute for Social-Ecological Research (ISOE) and additional partners. It is funded by the Federal State of Hesse through its Initiative for the Development of Scientific and Economic Excellence (LOEWE). The mission of the Centre is to carry out internationally outstanding research on the interactions of biodiversity and climate change at the organism level. The Project Area F „Knowledge Transfer and Social-Ecological Aspects of Climate-Induced Changed in Biodiversity" invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher Position "Ecosystem Services – Concepts and Application" [Ref. #F06]

The position is to develop a research framework for assessment and valuation of biodiversity and associated ecosystem services in the context of climate change. The research should adapt and develop existing concepts, methodological approaches and applications further. The applicability of the framework has to be evaluated for existing and upcoming research projects within BiK-F. Support of reporting and applications for funds is part of the duties.

We look for a highly motivated candidate holding a PhD degree in resource /environmental economics or related fields with strong background in ecosystem services approaches or environmental valuation. The candidate should have experiences in inter- and transdisciplinary co-operation (esp. with biology and geosciences) and should be interested in working on research questions related to improving and applying methods. Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to work both independently and in a team are essential. Good English language skills are required, German language skills are auxiliary.

Salary and benefits are according to a public service position in Germany (BAT/TVH). The Research Centre BiK-F advocates gender equality. Women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. Equally qualified severely handicapped applicants will be given preference.

The contract shall start as soon as possible and will initially be restricted to 24 months, with possible extension subject to the acquisition of additional external funding. The place of work will be Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Please send your application by e-mail, including 1) a cover letter outlining relevant background and work experience, 2) a full curriculum vitae, including a list of publications, 3) copies of educational certificates/thesis, 4) names and addresses of two referees, before November 23th 2009 to Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. V. Mosbrugger, Scientific Coordinator Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberganlage 25, D-60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany, recruiting@senckenberg.de (Service and Finances), with Cc to alexandra.lux@senckenberg.de.