Postdoc spatial modeler at Swiss Ornithological Institute

[Marc Kery]

Postdoc (2-3 years)
Spatial statistical modelling of bird distributions in Europe

The Swiss Ornithological Institute SOI is a non-profit research centre focusing on a wide range of research topics on birds within and beyond Switzerland. At a European level, the Institute is highly engaged in continent-wide projects such as the European Breeding Bird Atlas EBBA2 (http://www.ebba2.info) and EuroBirdPortal EBP (http://www.eurobirdportal.org), projects run by the European Bird Census Council EBCC.

We are seeking a scientist developing and applying distribution models to data collected within EBBA2 and EBP. The person is expected to develop and implement cutting-edge modelling techniques in collaboration with other modelling experts in the EBCC network and the EBBA2 coordination team.

The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications:
- A doctoral degree in a relevant subject (or alternatively master degree with several years of experience in spatial statistical modelling)
- Profound experience in spatial statistical modelling
- Advanced knowledge in R and possibly additional programming languages (e.g. BUGS)
- Experience in handling large and diverse datasets
- A good track record including scientific publications in international journals
- Willingness to collaborate in a team and contribute to achieving the project targets together
- Willingness to travel within Europe
- Very good knowledge of spoken and written English
- Good communication skills
- Knowledge of European birds and own fieldwork experience are desirable

We offer a challenging full-time position in a highly motivated international team with the possibility to contribute to ambitious continent-wide projects. The post is initially offered for two years with a possibility of extension to three years. The job holder will report to Verena Keller, EBBA2 project manager and collaborate at the SOI with Thomas Sattler, head of monitoring department, Marc Kéry and Hans Schmid as well as with members of the EBBA2 spatial modelling group.

Working place is Sempach (Switzerland), starting date 1 April 2016 or by agreement.

For more information please contact Verena Keller (verena.keller@vogelwarte.ch ).

To apply, please send, in a single pdf file: (i) a statement of your experience, motivation and suitability for this position, and (ii) your CV, including a list of publications and the contact details of two references. Applications are to be sent to Barbara Troesch (barbara.troesch@vogelwarte.ch ).

Closing date for applications: 23 January 2016. Interviews are expected to be held in February.