The Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior at its sites in Constance and Radolfzell offers an international, interdisciplinary, and cooperative environment that opens up unique research opportunities. The goal of our basic research is to develop a quantitative and predictive understanding of the decisions and movements of animals in their natural environment.

The Department of Animal Migration at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior would like to fill the following position starting as soon as possible. The workplace will be in Constance.

Postdoctoral position (m/f/d) - 100% - funded by the Volkswagen-Stiftung

Background

Weather predictions strongly depend on the availability and coverage of atmospheric observations. In this project, we aim to test a novel data source – bio-logging data from migrating animals. Animal- borne devices can provide information not only on the position of the animal but also on meteorological variables such as temperature, air pressure and wind. In this interdisciplinary project between the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior (MPI AB) and the German Meteorological Service (DWD), we will focus on a dataset collected from migrating storks to explore how such data can improve daily weather forecasts.

The tasks of the postdoctoral researcher will include

1. to develop calibration, and bias correction methods for the existing data collected from white storks
2. to develop/test tracking devices that can obtain calibrated measurements of ambient temperature, air pressure and wind from the surrounding environment of free-living white storks

Qualifications

• completed PhD and research experience in natural sciences, computer sciences, or engineering
• experience with quantitative methods, preferably analysis of tracking movement data
• proficiency in written and spoken English (C1 level). German proficiency is not required
• familiarity with R or Python programming languages. Experience in data science and statistical modelling
• good organisational and communication skills
• publications in international, peer-reviewed journals.
• team-orientated working style

Your application should include

1. cover letter describing your research background and how it relates to this position, key research accomplishments, interests, career goals, and specific motivation for the position (2 pages maximum),
2. current Curriculum Vitae (CV),
3. contact information for 3 references,
4. one example publication that demonstrates your skills.

We offer

You will join the Collective Migration group (Flack flock), led by Dr. Andrea Flack at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior. We are a young group that explores the elements that shape migratory decisions of long-distance migrants. To do this, we use state-of- the-art high-resolution bio-logging in combination with experimental approaches in the field. You will also closely collaborate with scientists at the German Meteorological Service.

The Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior together with the University of Constance form a thriving research community representing a global hotspot for collective behavior and animal movement research, including the Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour. Constance is a vibrant city located on the border between Germany and Switzerland, on the shores of the Bodensee (Lake Constance). It is easy to get out into the beautiful German and Swiss countryside and the Alps, as well as to neighboring Zurich.

The position will start as soon as possible and is initially limited for 2 years. We offer an interesting job in an open-minded team, a responsible and varied workplace in a growing interdisciplinary and international research institute. The payment is made in accordance with your experience and qualification and the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD-Bund).

The Max Planck Society endeavors to employ more severely disabled people. Applications of severely disabled persons are expressly welcome. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Details here

Your application

Interested candidates should submit the application documents by November 15, 2024 under this link: online application.

For questions about the position please contact Andrea Flack (aflack@ab.mpg.de).