New positions for 2025: Postdoc, Research assistant, PhD
Postdoctoral Researcher: Thinning in Ecological Networks
Term: Four years (2 years with a possible 2-year extension)
Level: A, Step1
Start date: Before 1 July 2025
Location: Monash University, Clayton Campus
Collaborators: Prof. Melodie McGeoch (Monash University), Dr Matthias Dehling (Monash University), A/Prof. Alejandro Ordonez (Aarhus University)
Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team and investigate the causes and consequences of thinning in ecological networks. Thinning, defined as the decline in species abundances, is a pervasive phenomenon driven by global change factors such as habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species. This project will examine how thinning propagates through ecological networks, and its impact on the vital ecological functions these networks provide.
The Project:
This project will integrate ecological theory, data synthesis, and network simulations to develop a novel predictive framework for understanding thinning in ecological networks using, for example, individual based model simulation as a tool. It will use a combination of simulation modelling and empirical testing, including case studies from plant-pollinator networks and predator-prey networks globally, from Australia and from the Antarctic.
Responsibilities:
- Contribute to the development and refinement of the conceptual framework for thinning in ecological networks.
- Conduct data synthesis and analysis to identify patterns and drivers of thinning in empirical datasets.
- Develop and implement individual-based models to simulate thinning scenarios and assess the role of species properties.
- Develop and apply novel methods to quantify the impact of thinning on ecological functions.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present results at conferences.
- Collaborate with project team members and contribute to project deliverables.
Qualifications:
- PhD in Ecology, Conservation Biology, Network Science, or a related field.
- Strong background in ecological networks, community ecology, or global change biology.
- Experience with ecological modeling, particularly individual-based models.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis and programming languages such as R or Python.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with data simulation and theoretical modelling.
- Familiarity with ecological network analysis tools and databases.
- Experience working with large datasets.
- Knowledge of biodiversity informatics and data standards.
To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a CV, a one-page vision for the project outlining the research they would be interested in doing and how their skills will enable the research, and contact information for two references via e-mail to: melodie.mcgeoch@monash.edu
Please note that the application deadline has not been provided, and will be made available at formal advertisement stage in early 2025.
Research Officer/ Research Assistant: Biodiversity Data Analytics
Location: Monash University, Clayton campus
School: Biological Sciences
Term: 1.0 FTE, 3 years
Start date: Before 30 May 2024
The Position:
We are seeking a skilled data analyst with an ecological background to support our research on the dynamics of ecological networks, biological invasions and Antarctic biodiversity change.
This 1.0 FTE Research Assistant position will contribute to work on current and ongoing research projects involving specialized environmental and biodiversity data science, as well as the running of Prof. McGeoch’s research group.
Primary responsibility will be data analytics, information synthesis and reporting, working predominantly with biodiversity data and ecological information. In particular the collation and integration of biodiversity, database management, data synthesis and visualisation. Secondary responsibilities include general research group support, such as social media management, preparation of scientific figures and other communication content.
Suitable candidates will have skills and experience in data science to collate, synthesize and analyse biodiversity and environmental data and to build and manage environmental and biodiversity information systems. They will have a high level of analytical, statistical and programming skills in R, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. A qualification in data science, statistics and ecology would be an advantage, as well as familiarity with biodiversity data and biodiversity informatics, data management, working with remotely sensed data, good graphical skills, use of R and Python. The successful applicant will be well-organised, have a proactive approach to their work and effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Key Performance Criteria:
Over and above the generic KPC’s for Research Officer’s at Monash University, KPC’s specific to this position include:
- Delivery of research products (such as datasets, data layers)
- Production of research outputs, e.g. in the form of reports, presentations, infographics
- Contribution to research projects through specified data preparation and analysis
- Effective research group management as requested
- Efficient administrative support as needed
To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a CV, a cover letter outlining their qualifications and research interests, and contact information for two references via e-mail to: melodie.mcgeoch@monash.edu.
Please note that the application deadline has not been provided, and will be made available at formal advertisement stage in early 2025.
PhD in Network Ecology
Start date: 2025
Monash University, Clayton Campus
The Project:
This PhD Project will use an insect-centred ecological network as a model system to investigate the functional consequences of abundance changes in networks. The student will work closely with other researchers working on related topics in the McGeoch Research Group.
Background:
A BSc (Hons) or Masters degree in ecology or entomology (or equivalent), including a background in statistics, modelling and/or data science. Competency in the use of R.
To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a CV and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and research interests, via e-mail to: melodie.mcgeoch@monash.edu.