We are hiring!!!

Senior Researcher at the Forest Invasion Synthesis Centre, Prague (FISC)

Job Description

The Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CZU) is one of the leading universities in Central Europe, specializing in life sciences, environmental studies, and sustainable development. With over 18,000 students and a strong international community, CZU is a dynamic and modern institution committed to excellence in research, innovation, and education. CZU consistently ranks among the top universities in sustainability and environmental impact, as recognized in global university rankings.

CZU is hosting a new socio-ecological synthesis centre aimed at advancing the scientific understanding of the ecology and management of biological invasions in forests. The Forest Invasion Synthesis Centre, Prague (FISC) is funded under the ERA Chairs Call of the Horizon Europe Programme, the EU's primary funding program for research and innovation. The synthesis centre hosts collaborative interdisciplinary working groups from outside institutions, along with a team of new postdocs, to explore the many facets of biological invasions by plants, insects, and tree pathogens in forests worldwide.

FISC uses the “synthesis centre” model that has been successfully applied in various other socio-ecological synthesis centres around the world. The anticipated scope of Centre research ranges from topics such as the macroecology of forest insect invasions, the physiological ecology of plant invasiveness, mutualisms among invading organisms in forests, risks and benefits of non-native trees in forestry, social perceptions of non-native species in forests, economic optimization of forest biosecurity, and the global impacts of invasions on global forest ecosystem processes.

We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups, and do not discriminate based on gender identity, nationality, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, or any other aspect of diversity.

Position Description

The senior researcher will serve as the deputy chief of FISC. This work involves co-leadership in the activities of the Centre, including mentoring of Postdocs and PhD students as well as scientific and logistical coordination of visiting collaborative working groups and other visiting scientists. The researcher is also expected to carry out their own research program focused on aspects of biological invasions in forests, actively apply for research grant and coordinate them. Communication of research findings to different stakeholder groups and increasing the visibility of the Centre will be part of the activities too. This position reports to Andrew M. Liebhold, Chief Scientist of FISC.

Position Qualifications

PhD completed at least 4 years ago and, substantial research experience including supervision of students or other scientists
Previous success in grant proposal writing and administration.
Research experience with invasive plants, insects, or plant pathogens.
Research experience in quantitative ecology
Significant publication record including ten or more publications in major journals (e.g., excluding those published by MDPI, Hindawi, and Frontiers).
Excellent communication skills in the English language
Record of successful collaboration in interdisciplinary research teams

Advantageous Experience

Experience in mentoring postdocs and PhD students
Participation in international collaborations
Previous experience with ecological synthesis centres
Research experience with forest ecosystems
Management experience in research and development organizations
Experience with Horizon Europe projects management

Application Instructions

Applications must consist of following pdf files:

Motivation letter describing applicants research interests and experience (file naming convention: Surname_Senior_Researcher_Letter.pdf)
Curriculum Vitae (file naming convention: Surname_Senior Researcher_CV.pdf)
List of two individuals who may be contacted regarding letters of support (file naming convention: Surname_Senior_Researcher_Support.pdf)
Copy of the PhD diploma (file naming convention: Surname_Senior Researcher_PhD diploma.pdf)

Applications need to be sent to fisc.recruitment@fld.czu.cz no later than 2nd of May 2025. Applicants will be notified once their applications have been accepted for evaluation.

We Offer

A position at a university with the HR Excellence in Research Award, ensuring fair recruitment, clear career progression, and strong institutional support for researchers.
Opportunities for professional growth, including access to international research networks, interdisciplinary collaborations, and career development programs.
Support for international researchers, including assistance with visa applications, work permits, and relocation via the CZU Welcome Centre.
Employee benefits (e.g. allowance for meals, supplementary pension insurance, vacation and others).
5 weeks vacation plus 5 days of bonus leave

We offer a two-year full-time contract with the possibility of extension. The gross (brutto) salary ranges from EUR 5,500 to EUR 6,300, corresponding to an approximate net salary of EUR 4,060 to EUR 4,650, depending upon qualification. Starting date is 1st of June 2025 or at another mutually agreed date.

The cost of living in Prague is generally lower than many other European locations (see https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Prague). CZU can provide assistance with applications for visa and work permit, as needed. This and other services for foreign scholars will be provided by the CZU Welcome Centre (https://www.czu.cz/en/r-9190-international-relations/r-18688-welcome-centre-for-international-scholars).

Recruitment and Selection

A two-stage review process will be conducted. In the first stage, the Recruitment Committee will assess the submitted materials. Applicants who are not selected to proceed will receive notification—with reasons for their dismissal—no later than 23rd of May 2025. The second stage will consist of an online interview with the Recruitment Committee. Invitations for this stage will be sent no later than 23rd of May 2025. The successful candidate will then be invited to negotiate a contract. Employment may begin on 1st of June 2025 or at another mutually agreed date.

Applicants will be informed about any changes in this schedule by email.

Privacy Statement

In the relation with the processing, collection, handling and protection of all personal data provided, CZU follows the Directive SR/09/18 (28.5.2018).

By submission of an application the candidate agrese with the processing of personal data.