Postdoctoral Fellow in Avian Cognition and Behavioural Ecology at Ghent University The Department of Biology at Ghent University invites applications for a two-year, full-time postdoctoral fellowship within the Centre for Research on Ecology, Cognition, and Behaviour of Birds (EcoBird). This position is funded through UGent’s international mobility scheme and offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of avian cognition and behavioural ecology research, with a strong emphasis on open science and international collaboration. About EcoBird and the ManyBirds Project EcoBird is dedicated to advancing our understanding of avian life by integrating ecology, cognition, and behavioural biology. The group’s research spans wild and captive bird populations, theoretical and applied conservation, and collaborative projects with both academic and non-academic partners. The ManyBirds Project is a global open science initiative investigating the evolution of avian cognition and behaviour through large-scale, multi-site collaboration, promoting transparency, replicability, and inclusivity in comparative cognition research. Position Overview The successful candidate will play a central role in two closely linked initiatives: (1) contributing to a new EcoBird project (in collaboration with the Research Institute for Nature and Forest, INBO) on innovation, cognition, and invasiveness in birds; and (2) joining the ManyBirds Study 2 Leadership Team to coordinate a large-scale study on avian innovation and problem solving. Responsibilities include conducting and coordinating data collection at the EcoBird site, liaising with international collaborators, supporting research design and data management, harmonising data collection across sites, co-managing data storage and analysis, and promoting open science practices. Eligibility and Requirements Candidates must hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in behavioural ecology, animal cognition, psychology, or a related field, or possess a diploma/certificate recognized as equivalent. Exceptional candidates without a PhD but with outstanding scientific merit may also be considered. The position is open only to candidates who meet international mobility requirements (resided abroad for at least 24 months out of the last 3 years and not worked/studied in Belgium during that period, with some exceptions). Essential skills include experience with behavioural data collection, statistical analysis (R required), strong organisational and communication abilities, and prior work with animals (experience with birds and FELASA certificate are advantages). Experience with open science, reproducible workflows, and collaborative platforms is desirable. Fluency in English is required, and the successful candidate must take up residence in Belgium. Funding and Benefits The fellowship offers a competitive salary equivalent to a doctoral assistant (AAP 5), with possible adjustments based on experience and competences. The initial contract is for two years, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and funding (maximum 36 months, or up to 48 months for certain EEA nationals). Staff benefits include extensive training opportunities, 36 days of annual leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. Application Process Applicants should send a CV, diploma (if available), motivation letter (max. 2 pages), and contact details of two referees to Prof. Frederick Verbruggen (frederick.verbruggen@ugent.be). Early applications are encouraged; review begins on November 28, 2025, and continues until the position is filled. Informal enquiries are welcome via email. For more information about EcoBird, visit https://ecobird.ugent.be . To learn more about the ManyBirds Project, see https://themanybirds.com . Institution Ghent University is a leading European research university with over 15,000 staff, 11 faculties, and more than 85 departments. It offers a vibrant academic environment and excellent career opportunities for researchers.