Scientists for Quaternary Megafaunas and Palaeobiology of Quaternary Small Mammals (f/m/d)

The Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung (SGN) was founded in 1817 and is one of the most important research institutions in the field of biodiversity. At its twelve locations throughout Germany, scientists from over 40 nations conduct cutting-edge research at an international level.

The renowned Senckenberg Research Station for Quaternary Palaeontology is located in Weimar, a university town with a rich cultural heritage in a diverse region. The Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung – Leibniz Institution for Biodiversity and Earth System Research, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, is searching for

two scientists for Quaternary Megafaunas and Palaeobiology of Quaternary Small Mammals (f/m/d)

(tenure-track, full time / part time options available).

• Place of employment: Weimar, Germany
• Working hours: full time (40 hours/week) / part time options are available

Type of contract: initially limited for a period up to 6 years, an extension with the option of permanent position is dependent on positive evaluation (tenure track). In case of exceptionally well-qualified candidates permanent employment is possible.

• Remuneration: TV-L E 13-14; we are open for applications of candidates at different career levels.
• Application deadline: April 15th, 2025

We are looking for two enthusiastic people for the section Quaternary Megafaunas and the section Paleobiology of Quaternary small mammals.

Your tasks

• Lead research either in the field of Quaternary large mammals with special focus on Pleistocene megafaunas or Quaternary small mammal palaeontology/palaeobiology 
• Expand and curate comprehensive Pleistocene vertebrate collections with more than 60,000 specimens and series from more than 300 localities 
• Contribute to the overall success of the Senckenberg research program
• Develop interdisciplinary collaborations with research groups locally and internationally 
• Successfully acquire third-party funding
• Contribute to Senckenberg-wide administrative tasks related to research (e.g., participation in internal and external committees, public outreach initiatives, editorial responsibilities, teaching)

Your qualifications

As a successful candidate, you will have the following qualifications:

• Doctoral degree in geology, biology or related disciplines 
• Internationally recognized research and publications 
• Comprehensive knowledge and experience in morphology of Pleistocene fossil large and small mammals, respectively 
• Experience in conducting excavation campaigns 
• Experience in curating scientific collections 
• Keen to participate in interdisciplinary research projects
• Experience in applying for external funding
• Flexibility and strong team working, communication as well as organizational skills 
• High motivation and willingness to take the initiative as well as a strong sense of responsibility

What is awaiting you

• An attractive workplace in a world-renowned research institution with highly motivated and professional colleagues
• Excellent working conditions in a well-equipped paleontology lab, supported by an experienced team of preparators
• Stimulating international, multidisciplinary research environment at Senckenberg 
• An attractive and challenging position in a globally recognized research institution 
• Independent work in an international, motivated and professional environment 
• Flexible working hours – support with childcare or caring for family members (certified by the “audit berufundfamilie”) – a collectively agreed annual special payment - collectively agreed vacation entitlement – company pension scheme Senckenberg is committed to diversity.

We benefit from the different expertise, perspectives and personalities of our staff and welcome every application from qualified candidates, irrespective of age, gender, ethnic or cultural origin, religion and ideology, sexual orientation and identity or disability. Women are particularly encouraged to apply, as they are underrepresented in the field of this position; in the case of equal qualifications and suitability they will be given preference. Applicants with a severe disability will be given special consideration in case of equal suitability. Senckenberg actively supports the compatibility of work and family and places great emphasis on an equal and inclusive work culture.

You would like to apply?

Please submit your complete application package (including a brief cover letter detailing your research interests, experience and fit for one of these positions (1 page), a CV and copies of your academic certificates) as one single PDF document mentioning the reference #03-25001 until April 15t, 2025, to recruiting(at)senckenberg.de.

You can also apply through our online application form on our website https://www.senckenberg.de/en/career/apply-online/ .

Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung

Senckenberganlage 25 60325 Frankfurt a.M.

E-mail: recruiting(at)senckenberg.de