Scientific Assistant Position in Animal Behaviour - Bielefeld University
Location: Bielefeld University, Germany
Organization: Department of Animal Behaviour, Bielefeld University
Contract Type: Full-time scientific assistant position (salary scale E13), 6 years (3+3) with possible extension for another 4 years
Main Description: The Department of Animal Behaviour at Bielefeld University seeks a bright and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with several years of postdoc experience in relevant topics (animal behaviour, behavioural ecology, population ecology, evolutionary ecology). The scientific assistant will develop their own research agenda while significantly contributing to one of three core model systems: zebra finches in the lab, birds of prey in the field, or sea lions in the field. The position is comparable to a Lecturer position in the UK or Assistant Professor position in the US. The successful candidate is expected to obtain significant third-party research funding and contribute to running the department headed by Oliver Krüger.
Requirements:
- Several years of postdoctoral experience in animal behaviour, behavioural ecology, population ecology, or evolutionary ecology
- Extensive experience with genetic and genomic approaches to behaviour and/or tracking data (distinct advantage)
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Capability to obtain third-party research funding
Benefits/Conditions:
- Teaching duties: 4 hours per week during semesters or 120 hours per annum
- Based in state-of-the-art facilities including brand-new building (completed 2025)
- International environment with over 70 scientists and PhD students from dozen countries
- Working language: English
- Location in Bielefeld (325,000 inhabitants) with attractive historical centre and access to Teutoburger Wald
- Start date: March 1st 2026 (flexible depending on candidate)
How to Apply: Email a single PDF file to oliver.krueger@uni-bielefeld.de containing:
- Letter of motivation including 3-5 page statement of research interests, contribution to core model systems, relevant skills and experience
- CV including publication list
- Names and contact details of three referees for confidential letters of recommendation
Application deadline: September 10th, 2025 Interviews: September/October 2025
For further information: www.uni-bielefeld.de/fakultaeten/biologie/forschung/arbeitsgruppen/behaviour or contact Oliver Krüger at oliver.krueger@uni-bielefeld.de
The University of Bielefeld is an equal opportunity employer, particularly welcoming applications from women and handicapped people.
