PhD Position in Urban Ecology, Biodiversity Promotion & Human-Environment Relationships

The Urban Ecology and Biodiversity working group at the Institute of Geography, Ruhr University Bochum, is offering a PhD position focused on biodiversity promotion and human-environment relationships in urban areas. The research group, led by Prof. Valentin Klaus and Dr. Simon Mösch, investigates ecological patterns and processes in urban and rural settings, aiming to understand and mitigate biodiversity loss and promote urban biodiversity. The successful candidate will contribute to interdisciplinary teaching, develop and document experimental platforms (e.g., camera traps, audio recorders, ecological surveys, interviews), conduct field and possibly laboratory work, coordinate stakeholder dialogues (with city administrations, NGOs, park visitors), and prepare and publish project results in scientific journals. The role also includes a small teaching load and supporting students in data collection and analysis, as well as outreach and science communication. Applicants should hold a Master's degree in Geography, Ecology, Landscape Ecology, or a related field. Preferred qualifications include knowledge of urban ecology and biodiversity promotion, enthusiasm for innovative teaching and socio-ecological topics, and a strong interest in scientific research and publication in both German and English. Experience with natural science and human geography research methods, university teaching, statistical methods (R, Python), and GIS (Arc, QGIS) is advantageous. Excellent German language skills (for communication and teaching) and good English proficiency are required. The ability to work independently and as part of a team is essential. The position is part-time (75%, 29.8725 hours/week), fixed-term for 3 years, and compensated according to the E13 TV-L pay scale. Ruhr University Bochum is one of Germany's leading research universities, offering a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international environment. The university values diversity and equal opportunity, encouraging applications from women and individuals with disabilities. The campus languages are German and English, and support is available for language acquisition. Applications must be submitted online via the Ruhr University Bochum job portal, referencing job number ANR 5461, by March 15, 2026. For further information, contact Dr. Simon Mösch at the provided phone number. Please note that travel and application costs cannot be reimbursed.