Applications are open for a full-time, two-year postdoctoral position to be hosted by the von der Heyden lab at the School of Climate Studies and the Department of Botany and Zoology at Stellenbosch University, South Africa.

The successful fellow will take on a leading role in projects that seek to build technical, theoretical, and applied aspects around measuring carbon from vegetated coastal ecosystems in South Africa, with a specific focus on seagrass. This project is in collaboration with Nelson Mandela University.

Qualifications and experience:

Applicant should have obtained their PhD within the last 5 years. Preference will be given to applicants with a strong background in the quantification of blue carbon from coastal ecosystems, specifically with a focus on South Africa and we welcome applicants who have both field and analytical experience of blue carbon and associated data.

Applicants should have at least three peer reviewed outputs (at least to ‘in review’) in international, ISI-accredited journals; the outputs need to demonstrate senior/lead authorship with a strong focus on blue carbon in aquatic environments, particularly seagrass meadows. A valid driver’s license is a requirement due to the extensive field work along the South African coastline. Applicants should be motivated, independent, and willing to engage and mentor postgraduate students at several levels (ranging from Honours to PhD), as well as be willing and able to work in remote environments. Experience with student supervision is preferred, as is a demonstration of teaching at undergraduate level.

Duration and remuneration: This is a two-year position, starting in early 2024. A competitive stipend accompanies this position.

Queries and applications: Please direct all enquiries to Prof. Sophie von der Heyden (svdh@sun.ac.za). In order to apply, please submit (1) a detailed CV with all relevant experience including publications and conference attendance, (2) three contactable referees, (3) a letter of motivation.

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