Job Advertisement: Akademischer Rat / Akademische Rätin (A13) in Paleontology (f/m/d)

Section Paleontology, GeoZentrum Nordbayern, Department of Geography and Geosciences, Friedrich-Alexander Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg,

We invite applications for an Akademischer Rat auf Zeit (= lecturer, assistant professor without tenure track) in our research group, which focuses on Global Change Paleobiology. We seek a candidate with a strong background in palaeobiology aiming for an academic career in Paleontology.

We plan to fill the position by 01 October 2025.

Responsibilities:

    ● Independent research in the field of Paleontology, ideally with a focus on macroevolution, biodiversity and/or climate impacts
    ● Active contribution to teaching in Paleontology and related areas including lectures, seminars, and field trips (5 contact hours per week per semester).
    ● Co-direction of bachelor and master theses
    ● Support for international master students
    ● Support in administrative and organizational tasks within the department and participation in academic self-governance.
    ● Acquisition of external funding and collaboration in interdisciplinary research initiatives

Qualifications:

The successful applicant will hold a PhD in palaeontology, address broader research questions, and have experience with quantitative methods. We expect an above-average publication record relative to career stage, teaching experience and pedagogical aptitude, demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, and a strong interest in interdisciplinary collaboration. German language skills are advantageous.
Desirable are taxonomic knowledge of a fossil group and specimen-based research that would make use of our micro-CT lab.

The position is grouped A 13 in the compensation scheme of the State of Bavaria. The salary will be commensurate with experience and marital status (https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/beamte/by/). The position is fixed term for three years but can be extended for up to another seven years.

We offer:

● A stimulating academic environment with opportunities for independent research.
● Access to excellent infrastructure (e.g., SEM, micro-CT, HPC) and collaborative research projects.
● Support for professional development and qualification toward a professorship (e.g., habilitation or equivalent).

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. We explicitly encourage applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals of diverse backgrounds.

To receive full consideration, applications must be submitted by 31 July, 2025 and should include a cover letter, a CV (with publication list), a documentation of conferred degrees and a research statement, as well as contact details of two referees.

Please send materials electronically as a single PDF (not exceeding 10 MB) to
Sabine Wolf (Secretary)
LS Paläoumwelt
E-Mail: sabine.wolf@fau.de

For enquiries about the position, feel free to contact:

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Kiessling
Phone +49 9131 85-26959
E-Mail: wolfgang.kiessling@fau.de