The Institute of Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences, a proud member of CETAF, therefore invites applications for two new research positions. Currently, with more than 150 researchers working across its three research divisions in Brno, Průhonice and Třeboň, the Institute consistently provides an inspiring, collaborative, and international environment for studies in plant biology, ecology, and environmental sciences.
Ph.D. Student Position – Department of Invasion Ecology (M/F/D) – Ref. 1001
The Department of Invasion Ecology is seeking a motivated Ph.D. student to join a project exploring how genome size and polyploidy influence the evolution of functional traits, adaptation, and diversification in angiosperms.
Under the supervision of Dr. Sreetama Bhadra, the successful candidate will work within the newly established Plant Evolutionary Ecology Group, integrating large-scale datasets, genomics, phylogenetics, and evolutionary theory to address key questions in plant macroevolution.
Main tasks:
- Collect and analyse data on genome size, chromosome number, and functional traits from living and herbarium collections.
- Integrate large datasets from diverse sources and apply modern statistical and phylogenetic comparative methods.
- Participate in field, greenhouse, and collaborative research activities.
Required qualifications:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Plant Sciences, Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, or a related field.
- Solid background in plant biology (systematics, evolution, ecology, or cytogenomics).
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with experience in statistical programming (preferably R or Python).
- Excellent written and spoken English.
Desirable skills:
- Experience working with large datasets and databases.
- Familiarity with phylogenetic and comparative methods in evolutionary biology.
- Experience with cytological techniques, trait measurements, or herbarium work.
- Previous experience in scientific writing or publishing.
- Team-oriented attitude and ability to work in an international environment.
We offer:
- Competitive salary and social benefits.
- Flexible working hours, 25 days of vacation and 5 sick days (full-time).
- Meal allowance and pension scheme.
- Supportive, international research environment with strong mentorship.
- Location: Průhonice, Czech Republic.
- Starting date (negotiable): 1 January 2026.
- Duration: 1 year, with possibility of extension.
Application deadline: 2 November 2025
Send your application (CV and motivation letter) to:
recruitment@ibot.cas.cz
Subject: Ph.D. Student Position 1001
Postdoctoral Position – Environmental Historian (M/F) – Ref. 1002
The Department of Vegetation Ecology at the Institute of Botany is offering a postdoctoral research position within the project “Forest of the Anthropocene: The role of Pinus sylvestris in the formation of modern states, societies and environments in the 18th and 19th centuries”, led by Péter Szabó.
This three-year, interdisciplinary, and international environmental history project, co-funded by the Czech Science Foundation and the Polish National Science Centre (2026–2028), investigates how the expansion of coniferous forestry – particularly Scots pine – reshaped social, economic, and environmental systems in East-Central Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Main responsibilities:
- Conduct research on the development of forestry theory in Western and Central Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, and its implementation in the Czech lands.
- Publish results in historical or environmental history journals and present findings at international conferences.
- Collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment.
Requirements:
- Ph.D. (or equivalent) in History, Environmental Studies, Geography, or a related discipline.
- Experience in historical research, preferably in the Early Modern or Modern period.
- Ability to read 18th–19th century sources in German; Czech is strongly recommended (negotiable); Polish is an advantage.
- Excellent English communication and writing skills.
- Capacity to independently develop a defined research programme.
- Knowledge of forest history is an advantage.
We offer:
- Full-time position (40 h/week).
- Annual salary around €26,450 (CZK 53,000/month).
- Flexible working hours, 25 days of paid vacation, 5 sick days.
- Food allowance, health insurance and social security contributions.
- Travel budget for conferences and workshops.
- Support for professional development and mentoring.
- Work location: Brno, Czech Republic.
- Starting date: 1 January 2026.
- Duration: 1 year, with possible extension until 2028.
Application deadline: 13 November 2025
Please send your application (CV including publication record, motivation letter, and proof of Ph.D.) to:
recruitment@ibot.cas.cz
Subject: Postdoc position – Environmental Historian (M/F) 1002
For more information: visit the Institute of Botany, Czech Academy of Sciences website.
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