Postdoc position (m/f/d) "Do single traits synergize to boost macroevolution? - Why are there so many orchid species?"
The State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart (SMNS) is one of the largest and most popular natural history museums in Germany. As a modern research museum, we see ourselves as a bridge between science and society and provide a vibrant platform for dialogue and exchange. Innovation emerges where cutting-edge research meets our unique collections and creative communication. We are passionately committed to preserving biodiversity. Our goal is to safeguard the foundations of life and thereby contribute to shaping a positive future.
Our motto, “In the name of diversity,” guides the work of our 180 employees from around the world. We value diverse talents and perspectives, foster team spirit, and place great importance on a positive and respectful working environment.
We are looking to fill a position as soon as possible for a
Postdoc (m/f/d)
"Do single traits synergize to boost macroevolution?
- Why are there so many orchid species?"
Full-time (100%), for 2 years
Remuneration according to TV-L E13
Applications accepted until 12/04/2026
Project and job description:
The SMNS is seeking for a creative and innovative person to fill a postdoc position in macroevolution with strong data science skills to lead a research project that will contribute to better understanding the impact and interaction of functional traits in angiosperms. The project aims to compare diversification rates among orchids and other angiosperms exhibiting specific traits. This project addresses a key research question at the SMNS ‘What key innovations drive evolutionary success’? The interdisciplinary team includes experts from the Botany Department (Thiv, Liancourt, Ferenc, Krause) and the Palaeontology Department (Roth-Nebelsick, Amson).
Requirements:
The successful candidate has a Ph.D. in Phylogenetics/Ecology/Biogeography/Macroecology or related fields and should moreover have the following skills and assets
- comprehensive expertise in modern phylogenetic statistics (incl. diversification rate analyses, supertree building) with strong background in handling large datasets (e.g., functional traits, phylogeny and ecological data)
- strong communication skills (oral and written), evidenced by participation in conferences and publications in international scientific journals
- team-player skills with an interest in participating in interdisciplinary research projects
- ability to supervise students
- excellent command of English; basic knowledge of German desired
Our offer:
- a full-time position remunerated according to TV-L E13 for 2 years (the advertised position can be filled on a part-time basis)
- involvement in ongoing research projects
- the opportunity to continue your career in an internationally renowned research museum with first-class infrastructure and in close cooperation with the University of Hohenheim
- an attractive workplace in the center of Stuttgart
- flextime, family-friendly working hours as well as the possibility to work remotely part of the time, if responsibilities permit
- a monthly subsidy for the JobTicket BW
- participation in occupational health management
- support in acquiring basic German language skill
How to apply:
Applications in German and English are equally welcome. The position should be filled as soon as possible. Please submit your electronic application including a cover letter, CV/resume, three references, list of publications, in a single PDF file (max 10 MB) to postdoc-botany@smns-bw.de (mailto:postdoc-botany@smns-bw.de) by April 12, 2026 at the latest. Furthermore, please attach three key publications as PDFs. Job interviews are scheduled for April 23, 2026 .
For further information, please contact PD Dr. Mike Thiv (phone: +49 (0)711/8936-205, email: mike.thiv@smns-bw.de (mailto:mike.thiv@smns-bw.de) ).
We strongly encourage women to apply. Diversity and inclusion are central to our philosophy. Applications from persons with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified. Since 2019, we have held the audit berufundfamilie certificate and offer proven family- and life-stage-conscious working conditions.
Data protection information for applicants can be found on our homepage under "Jobs".