We are pleased to inform you of an open call for a post-doc position at the Mammal Research Institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Poland. We are looking for a highly qualified researcher or researchers with a passion for understanding ecosystem functioning, with up-to-date knowledge of the cascading effects of predation on ecosystems and (also preferably) zoogeochemical cycles, as well as advanced statistical skills. Please see the details in the advertisement attached.
1. Project: « The multilevel impact of predation-induced stress in ungulates on the functioning of the temperate forest ecosystem” funded by the National Science Center, Poland, (MAESTRO, grant no 2021/42/A/NZ8/00126)
The project launched in mid-2022; therefore, most of the material has already been collected, and analyses are ongoing. However, due to the large amount of collected material covering a wide range of topics (analyses of carbon and nitrogen in animal faeces, spatiotemporal analyses of vegetation composition in experimental plots, and animal behavioral responses), we are currently seeking a person or persons to support the ongoing analyses and prepare publications.
Project website: https://ibs.bialowieza.pl/en/projects/the-multilevel-impact-of-predation-induced-stress-inungulates-on-the-functioning-of-the-temperate-forest-ecosystem/
2. Description of postdoc position and requirements
2.1. Tasks and duties of a postdoctoral fellow
a) Contribution and support in processing, analysing, and interpreting the data collected during the project, which includes:
– Analysing the carbon and nitrogen content in animal droppings (European bison) (with technical assistance) together with the spatial analysis of the data generated, with consideration of environmental variables.
– Spatiotemporal analyses of vegetation composition (data on phytosociological classification of experimental plots with the Braun-Blanquet scale),
– Spatial analyses of video-recordings of animal (ungulate) distribution
– Statistical analysis of data.
b) Collaboration in the preparation of reports and scientific publications.
2.2. Mandatory qualifications and skills
a) PhD degree (obtained within a maximum of 7 years, but preferably as long ago as possible within that period) in biology, ecology (preferably of mammals),
b) Several relevant scientific publications in recognized scientific journals,
c) Knowledge of non-consumptive predation-herbivory-environmental interactions,
d) Basic understanding of biogeochemical processes and elemental cycling,
e) Experience in analysing camera-trap data,
f) Advanced proficiency in statistics, knowledge of the R language and environment,
g) Skills in analysing and solving research problems. Ability to work both in a team and independently,
h) Fluent English.
2.3. Additional things to consider
The postdoc position is planned for a minimum of 1 year from February 2026 and February 2027. An extension for an additional 2 years is planned. The position is available for one or more persons, depending on the qualifications of candidates and personal preferences. You will need to be present and work at MRI PAS in Białowieża, Poland (52.70398N, 23.84985E) for most of the employment period. Periodic remote work, however, is also possible to consider. This is quite an isolated place (see illustration above, with ca. 1500 inhabitants), ca. 17 km from the nearest city.
3. What do we offer?
a) Fully developed, ambitious research project, the subject of which fits into the latest hot scientific topic in the ecology of ecosystems.
b) MRI PAS facilities located in the middle of the study area – Białowieża Primeval Forest, which is one of the most natural forest ecosystems in the European lowlands and biodiversity
hotspot inhabited by a rich community of large mammals.
c) Full-time salary ensuring a pretty good life standard in Poland, full coverage of all research costs, and possible travel costs to and from Poland.
d) Help with accommodation – relatively inexpensive flats in Białowieża, either located at the MRIPAS or to be rented from local residents.
4. When?
Employment time: February 2026 to February 2027. Possible extension for another 2 years
Application deadline: 3 January 2026
5. How to apply?
Please send the following documents to the project leader, Krzysztof Schmidt: kschmidt@ibs.bialowieza.pl:
• Certified copy of PhD diploma.
• Full-text version of PhD thesis.
• CV with detailed information on education, scientific career, skills, list of publications.
• Certificates or other documents confirming knowledge of English (if available).
• Motivation letter.
• Include at least two reference persons (e.g., prior research supervisors) familiar with your qualifications, together with e-mail addresses.
• Signed declaration of consent for processing of personal data (attached below; only the first signed page should be scanned and delivered through e-mail).
6. Recruitment
The selection of candidates will be based on their qualifications, including scientific achievements, experience, awards, internships, skills, and competences. An interview will be part of the selection of candidates.
7. Contact person
Krzysztof Schmidt (kschmidt@ibs.bialowieza.pl; ResearchGate profile) is a principal investigator of the project and will be the main supervisor of PhD students. If you would like to learn more about the project, the required qualifications, and other important matters related to this position, as well as the working and living conditions in Białowieża, please do not hesitate to contact me.
8. Official Announcement:
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