coexistence states (1.0 FTE)
Job description Ecosystems are highly nonlinear systems characterized by a multiplicity of stable states, but seldom have the time to converge to these states. Their dynamics are rather affected by unpredictable natural drivers and human intervention to meet various functional needs. Multistability in variable environments is of deep concern because of the possible occurrence of state transitions involving abrupt declines in ecosystem function as tipping points are traversed, or gradual declines by front propagation. For our ERC-Synergy project Pathways of resilience and evasion of tipping in ecosystems (RESILIENCE), we offer a Postdoc position at Ben-Gurion University to study the dynamics of fronts and the possible roles of front instabilities in reversing degradation processes, such as desertification and species invasion in resource-limited ecosystems. It is possible to apply for more than one position at the same time.
Qualifications The candidate should have a PhD in physics, mathematics, or engineering sciences. Acquaintance with nonlinear dynamics, pattern formation, and ecology, and experience in modeling and numerical computations are advantageous. The project is interdisciplinary and affinity with or interest in working in an interdisciplinary environment is important.
Offer
The successful candidate will be offered a postdoctoral fellowship (1.0 FTE) to work with prof. Ehud Meron in the Swiss Institute for Dryland Environmental and Energy Research (SIDEER) of the Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research (BIDR), located in the Sede Boqer campus of Ben-Gurion University. The offer is for one year, extendable to a second and a third year upon successful assessments in the previous year. The monthly fellowship will be approximately 11,000 NIS (3000€). The offer includes a low-rate residence, most likely in the university dorms.
About the organization
The SIDEER is an interdisciplinary research institute consisting of physicists, applied mathematicians, ecologists, and environmental scientists, covering in their research major aspects of dryland ecosystems. It is one of three institutes that comprise the BIDR (Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research), with the other two offering complementary expertise in water research, agriculture, and dryland biotechnologies. The BIDR is located in the Sede-Boqer Campus, about 60km south of the main campus of BGU in the city of Beer-Sheva. The Sede Boqer campus is an intimate place with a spectacular and inspiring desert landscape and an international atmosphere, thanks to the Albert Katz International School for Desert Studies it hosts.
Additional information For more information about this position, please contact prof. Ehud Meron (Full Professor) via [email protected] Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. We welcome employees with a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives.
The application deadline is 31/03/2023