Fixed-term junior group leader (Maître assistant-e): Applied animal population ecology (75%)

We are seeking to fill a Maître assistant-e (MA) position in applied animal population ecology at 75%. The position will be part of the Conservation Biology Lab, which aims at providing scientific knowledge to guide biodiversity conservation in the face of global changes. 

Within this framework, the successful candidate is expected to:

• teach (3h/week) at Bachelor level and Master levels, during the spring and autumn semesters 
• Coordinate collaborations with practitioners in animal conservation 
• Supervise thesis of Master students 
• Set up his or her own research programme in applied animal population ecology and secure third-party funding 

The successful candidate has:

• A doctoral degree in Conservation Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a related field
• An academic age less than 10 years (since PhD when applying)
• Demonstrated expertise in animal population ecology, including detection of populations, spatial use of habitats or movement ecology
• Knowledge on ecology and systematics of vertebrates
• Proficiency in field methods such as camera trapping, bioacoustics or telemetry 
• Research applied to sustainable human-wildlife coexistence, maintenance of viable populations or restoration of functional ecosystems
• Teaching experience 
• Fluency in English and French (within 1 year of employment)
• Good interpersonal skills

Starting date: 1 February 2025, with some flexibility. 

The position is secured for an initial duration of 4 years, renewable for another 2 years pending successful evaluation. Salary is according to the pay scale of the University of Neuchatel. The position is available until filled; we start reviewing applications on 30 November 2024. 

To apply, please compile the following documents into a single PDF labelled ‘MA_conservation_YourSurname.pdf’ and send it to Clara Zemp, clara.zemp@unine.ch  :

• cover letter (motivation and qualifications, max. 1 page)
• combined research and teaching vision statement (2-page)
• curriculum vitae 
• publication list
• contact details of two referees

The University of Neuchâtel is committed to providing non-discriminatory working conditions. We take gender balance and diversity seriously in our hiring decisions. Shortlisted candidates will be evaluated by a recruitment committee.