Biodiversity Researcher
The Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador (PUCE), a leading research institution in Latin America, is located in Quito. Within PUCE, the Zoological Museum (QCAZ) and the Center for Research on Health in Latin America (CISeAL) are key research partners. The Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change (LIB) is one of the globally connected research institutions of the Leibniz Association in Germany, with major museums in Bonn and Hamburg.
In addition to excellent research on biodiversity and biodiversity change, both institutions are advancing the development of scientific collections as international partners and developing new research avenues with state-of-the-art technology.
About the Position
PUCE, in cooperation with the LIB, is seeking a full-time Biodiversity Researcher to lead the:
Ecuadorian-German Integrative Biodiversity Research Center (EGiB) in Quito, Ecuador.
The EGiB Center will foster collaboration between biodiversity researchers in Ecuador and Germany, providing researchers with access to scientific infrastructure, including collections, cryo-biobanks for tissue samples, DNA, animal toxins, as well as morphology and molecular laboratories. The Center also aims to enhance research output and increase third-party funding through strategic partnerships.
This position is funded for three years (2025-2027) by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, with the possibility of extension.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the establishment and management of EGiB
- Set-up and manage access to molecular and morphology laboratories
- Assist researchers with permit applications
- Organize field expeditions, conferences, workshops, and symposiums
- Contribute to teaching biodiversity research at PUCE
- Foster collaborations within PUCE-LIB and with external partners
- Secure third-party research funding
- Promote science communication and outreach activities (e.g., bioblitz events, social media visibility)
- Coordinate projects and assess their impact
- Promote internal teamwork at PUCE-LIB and external collaborations
Candidate Profile
- PhD in Zoology, Biodiversity, or related fields
- Expertise in at least one of the following fields:
- Taxonomic or systematic research (advanced morphological and/or molecular methods, collection-based research)
- Ecology or evolutionary research
Experience & Skills
- Strong background in biodiversity research
- Experience with natural history collections and scientific biobank management
- Knowledge of environmental regulations and research permits processes
- Ability to design and execute research projects
- Proficiency in bioinformatics tools and statistical software
- Strong publication record
- Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills
- Fluency in Spanish and English (spoken and written)
Commitment to Diversity
The PUCE-LIB collaboration is committed to diversity and gender equity. We aim to increase the representation of women in underrepresented areas and actively support their career development. Therefore, we strongly encourage women with relevant qualifications to apply.
Position Details
- 📅 Start Date: April 2025
- 📜 Contract Duration: 3 years, with the possibility of extension
- 🏢 Employment handled by: PUCE
Submit the following application materials in English:
- CV
- Certificates
- List of publications and funding
- Motivation letter
📩 How to Apply
Applications should be sent to egibapplications@puce.edu.ec no later than March 15, 2025.
Interviews will be conducted in English.
