Institute for Earth Observation Short description of the position/project: Eurac Research is an interdisciplinary research centre located in Bolzano, Italy. At the Institute for Earth Observation, we use satellite data to derive environmental information to understand and assess mountain dynamics. Within the Biosphere and Hydrosphere Group, we are partner in the Horizon Europe Birdwatch project (https://birdwatch-europe.org/) and provide a variety of Earth Observation data products to the consortium. We also model farmland bird habitats in our regional test site South Tyrol in collaboration with the Institute of Alpine Environment and the Museum of Nature South Tyrol. For this task, we are looking for a highly motivated person to support our work and gain visibility of our group in this topic. Tasks: Literature review on farmland birds, land management, conservation policies and habitat modeling Review, update and progress the existing work on habitat modeling in South Tyrol including the testing of different Earth Observation data products Develop research questions together with local experts in ornithology and Earth Observation Present the results to local stakeholders and at international conferences Write and submit a research manuscript Support project tasks Requirements: Finished master's degree in ecology, biology, environmental sciences, geosciences or similar field Programming skills in R Scientific writing skills Understanding of habitat modeling and bird habitat requirements Knowledge of geographic information systems and spatial analysis Understanding of Earth Observation products Fluent in English We offer: 1 year contract, extendable for up to 3 years depending on funding Preferably starting in April 2025 but negotiable An interesting, highly responsible job in a young international and interdisciplinary team State-of-the-art technical facilities (soft- and hardware, communication tools) Professional development opportunities Flexible working hours benefits (e.g. family-friendly benefits, lunch card, health insurance, etc.) Access to EURAC's numerous scientific and cultural facilities and events An attractive working place in a vivid city in the heart of the Alps with endless opportunities for skiing, hiking, climbing How to apply: Interested candidates should submit their application (CV, cover letter and further relevant documents in English) by 15.01.25. J-18808-Ljbffr