CREAF is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work in the LIFE REINFORCEMENT project (Millora de les capacitats del projecte EuroBirdPortal per potenciar la seva contribució als objectius de la política de la UE sota la Directiva d'Ocells i la Estratègia de Biodiversitat 2030) with ref. LIFE22-PLP-ES-EBP reinforcement and funded european commission/Life Preparatory Projects.
This call seeks an experienced spatial modeller researcher with a strong background in biodiversity and bird modelling and use of scenario projections to work on the future spatial dynamics of bird distributions under different scenarios of disturbance regimes at different spatial scales (from subnational to European). These models will aim at significantly contributing to the core of policy relevant information targeting the implementation of the European Biodiversity Strategy 2030.
The LIFE EBP Reinforcement aims at strengthening the EuroBirdPortal project which integrates observations from bird portals all over Europe. Together with ICO (Catalan Ornithological Institute, https://ornitologia.org/ca/) and EBCC (European Bird Census Council, https://www.ebcc.info), our group is leading on the development of bird based EBVs and derived indicators (farmland, forest and open habitats) that bridge the gap between informing current global change impacts and the evaluation of future scenarios of change allowing the assessment of current socio-political decisions.
A full-time contract is offered (37.5 hours per week) With immediate incorporation and a duration until 31 December 2026, with the possibility of extension if required and if the budget allows. The contract will be linked to the budgets of the project described above ("scientific-technical activities", according to Law 14/2011). The gross annual salary offered is € 37.033,64 (corresponding to category I3).
MAIN FUNCTIONS
Conduct specific activities of the CREAF team related to the modelling development work the projects mentioned.
Work in the use and integration of available scenarios of future land use, disturbances such as fire, climate and vegetation available at the different spatial scales.
Contribute to develop state of the art Species Distribution Models (SDMs) using large scale bird monitoring datasets.
Unravel, using state of the art modelling, the spatial and temporal changes in bird distributions and explore causal links with underlaying drivers of change.
Produce robust and credible projections of future changes in bird distributions under different scenarios of global change drivers and management options.
Translate the acquired knowledge on processes and interactions into operational tools.
High quality scientific outputs in the form of journal publications and contribution to relevant policy reports.
Networking with other national and international groups in bird spatial modeling and monitoring.
Collaborate with a large consortium of scientists to provide the outputs necessary for spatial conservation prioritization.
High quality scientific outputs in the form of journal publications and contribution to relevant policy reports.
REQUIREMENTS
A completed PhD on a topic related to the current project description (biodiversity modelling/monitoring/global change).
Previous experience with the development of advanced bird distribution models in a context of land use changes, disturbance dynamics such as fire, dynamic vegetation models or similar.
Excellent publication record.
Expertise in the use of large-scale bird monitoring databases.
Proven expertise in handling climate projections at large spatial scales.
Previous experience in European projects.
Demonstrated experience in advanced statistic programming languages (such as R).
Contrasted capacity to lead work and team up with other researchers.
Advanced knowledge of English.
ASESSABLE CONDITIONS
Experience in working alongside and/or coordinating large research groups, preferably in an international environment.
Experience in working with future scenarios of biodiversity or climate change research and knowledge of IPCC and IPBES scenarios and modelling communities.
Experience in the reporting of biodiversity relevant European legislation and Nature directives.
Experience in team coordination and management in an academic/professional environment
Experience in developing successful proposals for competitive project applications.
Candidates with a certified disability of 33% or more will be prioritized, provided the disability is compatible with the position's responsibilities.
SELECTION PROCES AND CRITERIA
Application submission: Interested candidates must apply to the position and attach the required documentation, an English CV, and a cover letter (maximum 500 words) until May 8th, 2026 Applications submitted through any portal other than CREAF’s job board or not following the indicated instructions will not be accepted.
Pre-selection: Assessment of compliance with the minimum requirements of the job offer.
Selection: Evaluation of shortlisted candidates based on objective criteria, interviews with a short list of candidates, and completion of a proposed exercise.
Final decision: If a suitable candidate is identified, they will be formally notified of the selection, and all other participants in the process will be informed by email.
CREAF’s main objective is to generate knowledge and create new methodological tools in the field of terrestrial ecology, with special emphasis on forest ecology, in order to improve environmental planning and management in rural and urban areas. This is achieved through:
Basic research. CREAF conducts first-class, innovative basic research and a centre of excellence at both national and international levels.
Applied research. CREAF also conducts applied research, especially in the field of forestry. This research contributes to the sustainable management and conservation of resources and ecosystems.
Development of methodological and conceptual tools. These tools are designed to facilitate decision-making and improve environmental management.
Transfer and diffusion of knowledge. CREAF transfer scientific and technological know-how through training courses, consultation and various types of publications.
