Website University of Zurich
The research group of Prof. Owen Petchey at the University of Zurich invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship of up to three years’ duration, 100%.
The fellowship provides an opportunity for an early-career researcher to develop and pursue an original programme of research that advances understanding and prediction of ecological stability. Research proposals should align with the group’s broad scientific interests, including the development and application of concepts and tools such as response diversity.
The group investigates the determinants of ecological stability in temporal and or spatial dimensions, through a combination of ecological theory, mathematical modelling, experimental ecology, and the analysis of ecological observations and experiments. We are interested in understanding how ecological systems respond to environmental change and in improving our ability to predict ecological dynamics across scales.
Your responsibilities
Unlike project-based postdoctoral positions, this fellowship is intended for researchers who wish to develop and lead their own research programme. Applicants are therefore expected to propose an original research agenda that aligns with the broad scientific interests of the group.
We welcome proposals that contribute to understanding and predicting ecological stability through theoretical, computational, experimental, observational, or interdisciplinary approaches, or combinations thereof.
The fellowship combines substantial intellectual freedom with active mentorship and support. Fellows will shape and pursue their own research programme while benefiting from regular scientific interaction, guidance, and collaboration within the research group and the wider research environment at the University of Zurich.
We are particularly interested in applicants who are motivated by important scientific questions, who enjoy collaborative research, and who can articulate a clear vision for how their proposed work will advance the field.
The fellowship is funded for up to three years.
The successful applicant will have access to:
- research funding to support the proposed programme;
- computing resources and analytical resources;
- laboratory facilities and infrastructure within the research group;
- opportunities for collaboration within the University of Zurich and beyond;
- a supportive, inclusive, and collegial research environment.
Projects involving fieldwork and or analyses of local to large scale ecological data are welcome, although such work should be planned, organised, and led by the fellow as part of the proposed research programme.
Projects involving Arctic ecosystems are welcomed, and may be supported through collaboration with Prof. Dr. Gabriela Schaepman-Strub , (University of Zurich).
Your profile
Applicants must have been awarded their PhD no more than four years before the application deadline.
We welcome applications from researchers who can demonstrate:
- a compelling vision for future research;
- creativity and initiative in developing scientific ideas;
- a strong record of research achievement relative to career stage;
- the ability to bring research projects to completion;
- enthusiasm for collaborative and constructive research environments.
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds relevant to ecological stability.
Information on your application
Application Materials
Please submit the following as a single PDF document:
- A curriculum vitae (maximum 2 pages).
- A research proposal (maximum 4 pages, including references).
- Contact information for two referees.
The research proposal should describe: - the scientific questions to be addressed;
- the significance and originality of the proposed research;
- the planned approach and methodology;
- expected outcomes and contributions to the field;
- how the proposed research contributes to advancing understanding and prediction of ecological stability;
- career objectives and the major steps and milestones required during the fellowship to achieve these.
Assessment Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- the applicant’s research achievements and contributions relative to career stage;
- the quality, originality, feasibility, and scientific significance of the proposed research programme;
- the fit of the proposed programme with the fellowship theme;
- evidence of creativity, initiative, and the ability to translate ideas into impactful research.
Application deadline: 31 October 2026
Earliest start date: January 2027
What we offer
- Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
- Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
- Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
- Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
- Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
- Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
- Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
- Free seasonal flu vaccinations
- Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
- Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
- Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
- Policies of the UZH
- Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
- Support for people from outside Switzerland
- Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
- Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg
Location
Further information
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