Technician position (m/f/d) in Plant Ecology (Umweltwissenschaftler/in)

The State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart (SMNS) is one of the largestand most popular natural history museums in Germany. As a modern researchmuseum, we see ourselves as a bridge between science and society, offering avibrant platform for dialogue and exchange. Innovation arises wherecutting-edge research meets our unique collection and creative outreach. We arepassionately committed to the conservation of biodiversity. Our aim is topreserve the foundations of life and thus help shape a positive future.Our motto, ‘On A Mission For Diversity’, shapes the work of our 190 staffmembers from all over the world. We value diverse talents and perspectives,foster team spirit and place great importance on a positive and supportiveworking environment.We are seeking to fill a position as soon as possible:Technician position (m/f/d) in Plant EcologyFull-time (100%), fixed-term for 6 monthsRemuneration in accordance with TV-L E 9aApplications accepted until 15 November 2026This position is part of HYPERSPACE, an international research project fundedby the German Research Foundation (DFG, Germany) and the French NationalResearch Agency (ANR, France). The project investigates the patterns andprocesses underlying plant hyperaccumulation of heavy metals. It takes amultidisciplinary approach, examining gene expression, metal allocation,individual fitness, functional trade-offs and the community-level consequencesof hyperaccumulation.Within the field of functional and comparative ecology, the main task is tocontribute to field sample collection and processing. The successful candidatewill support the processing of samples for the large-scale characterisation ofplant functional traits. The role also involves preparing for and participatingin a field campaign in the western United States, in close collaboration withDr Pierre Liancourt. The technician will work closely with the laboratory ofProfessor Katja Tielbörger, the principal investigator leading the HYPERSPACEproject in Germany.Your responsibilities will include:- Implementing and adapting techniques and methods in plant functionalecology, with trait measurements conducted both in the field and in thelaboratory. Plant organs (leaves, stems and roots) and soil samples will beanalysed for metal concentrations.- Contributing to data collection, formatting and management, and maintainingdetailed records of protocols and procedures.- Following appropriate hygiene and safety procedures when handling plant andsoil samples with elevated metal concentrations, both in the field and in thelaboratory.You have the following skills and knowledge:- A Bachelor’s degree in ecology or an equivalent qualification.- English proficiency at B2 level or above; C1 or C2 preferred forcommunication with international partners.- Basic knowledge of functional ecology and methods for measuringabove-ground and root functional traits.- An understanding of major plant adaptations to exposure to metals andmetalloids.- Experience in sample collection and international transport, includingrelevant regulatory requirements.- Experience in functional trait measurements using specialist software suchas WinFolia and WinRhizo.- Enjoyment of fieldwork and the physical fitness required for potentiallydemanding conditions, including mountainous terrain and remote areas.- Precision and thoroughness in laboratory work, which will account for asubstantial proportion of the role, particularly when handling plant and soilsamples with elevated metal concentrations.- Clear and open communication with a range of stakeholders, includinginternational researchers.- The ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, meet deadlines andadapt to changing workloads.- A valid Category B driving licence.- Willingness and ability to travel to the United States for fieldwork,subject to applicable travel and entry requirements; travel expenses will becovered by the project.Here are the benefits we offer:- The opportunity to develop your career at an internationally renownedresearch museum.- A friendly, dynamic and interdisciplinary working environment.- An attractive workplace in central Stuttgart.- A subsidised public transport ticket (JobTicket BW).- Generous core hours, flexible working arrangements and the option to workremotely.- Core funding for research and conference travel.- The opportunity to participate in established research projects at theState Museum of Natural History Stuttgart (SMNS).- Family-friendly working conditions.- Support with learning German, if required.Please submit your application exclusively via our website, including:- A cover letter outlining your motivation and a CV.- The names and contact details of two referees.- Copies of relevant certificates.Applications are welcome in English. We strongly encourage women to apply.Diversity and inclusion are central to our values: applications from peoplewith severe disabilities will be given priority where candidates are equallyqualified. Since 2019, we hold the ‘audit berufundfamilie’ certificate andoffer working conditions that are demonstrably family- and life-stage-friendly.Would you like more information? Dr. Pierre Liancourt will be happy to assistyou. You can reach him by email [email protected].Data protection information for applicants can be found on our website under‘Jobs’.Homeoffice:Umfang: Nach Vereinbarung