PRR Project

Summary

BIOPOLIS-InBIO is seeking a highly qualified conservation ecologist with a profound passion for wildlife ecology and biodiversity conservation, specifically with expertise in tropical environments, particularly tropical rainforests. The ideal candidate will boast a robust academic background, encompassing a bachelor´s, master´s, and PhD, complemented by a series of influential postdoctoral and research fellowships that have yielded numerous peer-reviewed papers, including high-impact publications where they have served both as the first author and senior author.The prospective researcher will shoulder the responsibility of supervising a diverse group of PhD students and postdocs, the majority of whom are engaged in research activities within tropical rainforests in Africa. This role necessitates experience in guiding students through their PhD programs, ensuring the publication of impactful research that contributes to informed conservation decisions. Additionally, the selected candidate will oversee the Gulf of Guinea Research Program, an interdisciplinary initiative aimed at fostering research and conservation efforts in the region. Proficiency in multiple relevant languages and comfort in remote field settings within tropical rainforests are prerequisites. The researcher must also demonstrate a history of recruiting and capacity-building for students, particularly those from Africa, and possess substantial experience leading field expeditions in remote tropical rainforest regions. Dedication to mentoring students and active participation in graduate student committees underscore their commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists. Moreover, the researcher should be adept at managing large teams and recruiting individuals for work in remote locations.Fundraising for tropical systems´ projects will be a key responsibility, requiring a proven track record of success in securing funds. Exceptional postdoctoral and research fellowship appointments, particularly those where the researcher wrote proposals for their own funding, such as with a Marie Curie fellowship, are highly valued.In summary, we are in search of a candidate deeply committed to tropical wildlife ecology, passionate about mentoring future scientists, and boasting a track record of conducting innovative ecological research in the tropics. Leadership skills are paramount, and experience in leading research groups, such as holding an ERA-Chair position, is crucial. The ideal individual will have made substantial contributions to the field, resulting in multiple publications on topics related to tropical rainforests, such as the impact of forest fragmentation/degradation on ecological communities. Candidates with experience in agroecology or agroforestry are particularly sought after, given the agricultural sector´s significant role in habitat and biodiversity loss in tropical rainforests. Demonstrated leadership through organizing conferences, symposia, and special journal issues is essential. The candidate should be a pioneer in their field, showcasing an ability to push research boundaries, and proficiency in using molecular techniques to address ecological and conservation questions is highly desirable, aligning with Biopolis´ advanced facilities in genetic research.The candidate should have conducted postdoctoral and/or fellowship research at prestigious institutions, producing groundbreaking work in their field. Lastly, any involvement in impactful on-the-ground activities, such as with a conservation-focused NGO in the tropics, is highly desirable, showcasing leadership and impact beyond academia.Given the rapid population growth in Sub-Saharan Africa, projected to quadruple by 2100, there will be immense pressure on natural ecosystems, particularly endangering the integrity of the Congo Rainforest. Hiring an individual with the described profile is crucial as it brings a strong foundation in tropical ecology, advanced expertise in ecological principles and field techniques, and the ability to conduct high-quality research in wildlife ecology and biodiversity conservation. This individual will play a pivotal role in training the next generation of researchers equipped to address critical conservation issues in Africa, enhancing the organization´s reputation and impact in biodiversity conservation on the continent. A researcher with this profile possesses the ideal combination of academic excellence, research impact, leadership skills, mentoring abilities, adaptability, and credibility essential for advancing wildlife ecology and biodiversity conservation efforts in Sub-Saharan Africa.