Junior Researcher in Environmental Sciences
Join CIIMAR to investigate the cumulative ecological impacts of multiple invasive alien species in estuarine ecosystems.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a PhD in ecology or environmental sciences and strong expertise in ecological modeling or field sampling.
Overview
The Interdisciplinary Center of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR) at the University of Porto invites applications for a Junior Researcher position under the project 'X-IAS - Investigating the Cumulative Effects of Multiple Invasive Species on Estuarine Ecosystems'. The successful candidate will join the Benthic Ecology and Environmental Solutions research team to conduct field sampling, laboratory analyses, and ecological modeling. Responsibilities also include data management, preparing scientific manuscripts, and coordinating stakeholder engagement and outreach activities. The role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-impact marine environmental research under the supervision of Dr. Martina Ilarri.
What you'll do
- Organize and execute field sampling campaigns targeting zooplankton, epibenthic and benthic invertebrates, and fish in estuarine environments.
- Conduct laboratory analyses including species identification, biomass determinations, and water quality assessments.
- Perform mesocosm experiments and prepare samples for stable isotope and external analyses.
- Develop ecological models to analyze and visualize the isolated and combined impacts of multiple invasive alien species.
- Manage project data, compile ecological datasets, and perform rigorous data analysis.
- Draft technical reports, scientific manuscripts, and other dissemination materials for international journals.
- Participate in conferences, seminars, and organize public outreach workshops.
- Engage with stakeholders and resource managers to translate research findings into monitoring guidelines.
- Support and co-supervise students involved in project research activities.
- Assist with laboratory management, procurement, and stock oversight.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, or closely related fields
Language: English; excellent communication skills required
Instruction: English
Publications: Demonstrated experience in writing scientific publications in international scientific journals relevant to the project area
- Demonstrated expertise in ecological modelling, with food web model experience considered a major asset
- Proven experience in field sampling and biodiversity assessments in marine or estuarine ecosystems
- Hands-on experience in processing and identifying zooplankton, macroinvertebrates, and fish
- Practical experience in laboratory analysis and sample preparation
- Track record of writing and publishing scientific papers in international journals
- Valid driving license
- Any national, foreign, or stateless candidate holding a relevant PhD degree
- Foreign doctoral degrees must comply with Decree-Law no. 66/2018 of 16th August prior to contract signing
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2025-12-19
Candidates must submit their application via email to rh@ciimar.up.pt with the subject reference '2025_098_IJ_X-IAS'. The submission must include a detailed Curriculum Vitae, degree certificates, a driving license copy, and a motivation letter containing contact details. All application documents must be prepared in English and combined within a total size not exceeding 20 MB.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- BSc + MSc transcripts
- Eligibility certificates
- Driving license
Contact
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