Senior Scientist at the Core Facility Botanical Garden

Do you have a passion for plants and for leading scientific work dealing with botanical collections and biodiversity? Do you have a background in botanic garden management, botanical training programs, plant conservation, plant systematics or biodiversity research in theory and practice? Are you dedicated to working at the interface between science and public outreach? Do you want to benefit from working in an interdisciplinary, dynamic, and highly motivated team embedded in the excellent and international environment of the University of Vienna? Then come join our team as head of the Core Facility Botanical Garden at the Faculty of Life Sciences.

About this position:

To fully exploit and further develop the scientific and collaborative potential of this Core Facility at national and international levels, we are seeking a highly engaged Senior Scientist with the botanical knowledge, expertise, motivation, and enthusiasm to lead and guide this vital facility. The successful candidate is also capable to actively apply for research grants and is interested in, and qualified to participate in research, teaching and public outreach activities.

The position is limited to 1 year with the option of a permanent contract.

Your future tasks:

The Senior Scientist will be heading the Core Facility Botanical Garden at the Faculty of Life Sciences. This Core Facility holds a collection of more than 13.000 plant species used for research, teaching, conservation and public display. It is closely linked with the Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research at the same location and its teaching and research programs. The garden plays an active and leading role in national and international activities and programs of Botanical Gardens and links its historical roots with modern collection and research requirements. It is also involved in the development and implementation of conservation related projects and structures (e.g., international conventions like the CBD or CITES, conservation of plant species in the wild). The Core Facility has public outreach facilities and a science-communication program for academic and non-academic target groups.

The head of the Core Facility is responsible for managing resources and personnel and further shaping of the profile of the Core Facility. This includes staff and budget negotiations, acquisition of external funds, as well as the further development of the living collections and garden displays for research and conservation, education and public outreach. As its main representative, the head of the Core Facility also organises communication within the faculty and beyond. Thus, the ability to collaborate and to create good relationships are prerequisites. In addition, the head of the Core Facility is encouraged to participate in teaching at the University.

Your profile:

The applicant

• has a doctoral degree/PhD in biology with a focus on research in plant systematics, evolution, ecology or conservation of plants
• has at least 2 years of post-doctoral research experience, with preferred additional experience as research faculty
• is motivated to contribute to botany and biodiversity related courses
• has experience in the management of a Botanical Garden, collections, biodiversity-focused training programs, or a similar collection-based or service-oriented facility
• has demonstrated scientific skills with a track record of scientific publications
• has successfully applied for large funding awards and can demonstrate experience in managing budgets and personnel
• has demonstrated connections to international botanical gardens
• has experience or documented interest in science communication and networking
• speaks and writes fluently in English
• is expected to acquire proficiency in German within three years, sufficient for teaching and to be able to communicate with the local stakeholders as well as with the gardening team in German

What we offer:

Inspiring working atmosphere: You are part of an international team at one of the most beautiful workplaces in Vienna.
Good public transport connections: Your workplace in the center of Vienna is easily accessible by public transport.
Internal further training & Coaching: Opportunity to deepen your skills on an ongoing basis. There are over 600 courses to choose from – free of charge.
Fixed-term contract and fair salary:  The basic salary of EUR 4.752,30 (14 times a year for senior scientists postdoctoral) increases, if we can credit professional experience.
 Equal opportunities for all:  We welcome every new personality to the team!

Application documents:

• Letter of motivation with a description of research interests and the specific interest in the advertised position
• Academic curriculum vitae (including a list of publications, of leading project applications and/or participations and of collection- and/or management related activities)
• Description of research interests and research agenda
• Contact details of people who could provide a letter of reference
  
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