Postdoctoral Researcher in Catchment Science - eDNA and Biodiversity Monitoring

The Department of Ecoscience at Aarhus University invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral position in Biodiversity Monitoring and Conservation Genetics. **Position Details** This is a 2-year position starting February 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. **Role Overview** This position focuses on developing and applying genetic and genomic approaches to biodiversity research, integrating environmental DNA (eDNA) and molecular tools with ecological data to enhance biodiversity assessment, detect environmental changes, and inform conservation decisions. The successful candidate will expand the use of genetics and genomics within biodiversity research, bridging molecular biology, ecology, bioinformatics, and environmental science across multiple taxonomic groups. The postdoctoral researcher will collaborate closely with the newly formed Genetic Agrobiodiversity Unit at the Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics (QGG), extending current biodiversity monitoring projects into population genetics, metagenomics, eDNA-based monitoring, and phylogenomics. This role offers opportunities to develop independent research within biodiversity monitoring, ecological assessment, and molecular ecology while contributing to large-scale biodiversity assessments and methodological development. **Required Qualifications** - PhD in ecology, population or conservation genetics, evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, or related field - Strong interest in biodiversity research, innovative monitoring, and ecosystem change - Demonstrated skills in several of the following areas: - Population genetics, evolutionary genomics, or molecular ecology - Biodiversity assessment and ecological data analysis - Environmental DNA (eDNA) or other molecular biodiversity tools - Bioinformatics and statistical analyses (R, Python) - Fieldwork experience in ecological or environmental sampling - Scientific publishing and project coordination **About the Department** The Department of Ecoscience conducts innovative research in aquatic biology and ecology, Arctic environments, biodiversity, conservation biology, and wildlife management. With approximately 300 academic and technical staff and numerous PhD students, the department provides a supportive, internationally engaged scientific environment within the Section for Freshwater Ecology. We prioritize work-life balance, curiosity, and trust while offering interesting challenges and collaborative opportunities. **What We Offer** - Well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories, and shared equipment access - Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities across Ecoscience focus groups and QGG - Mentorship and support for developing independent research directions - Grant writing and professional development support - Professional workplace emphasizing equality and healthy work-life balance **Location** Positions available at either the main campus in Aarhus (C.F. Møllers Allé 3, 8000 Aarhus C) or Roskilde facilities (Frederiksborgvej 399, DK 4000 Roskilde, approximately 40 km from Copenhagen). **Application Requirements** Applications must be submitted in English and include: - Curriculum vitae - Degree certificates - Complete publications list - Statement of future research plans and research activities - Teaching portfolio and verified teaching experience (if applicable) Applications undergo shortlisting, with selected candidates evaluated by an expert assessment committee. Applicants will be notified of their status and committee composition, with opportunities to comment on their assessment. **Application Deadline** December 12, 2025 **Additional Information** Salary determined by seniority according to collective labor agreements. Research activities evaluated relative to actual research time, with consideration for career breaks. Aarhus University offers comprehensive services for international researchers and families, including relocation assistance and career counseling. A Junior Researcher Development Programme supports postdoctoral career development. Applications must be submitted through Aarhus University's recruitment system, accessible via the job advertisement on the university website.