Project Description
Red Lists are critical tools for assessing species’ extinction risk, systematically evaluating threats based on past and ongoing environmental drivers. However, global change drivers—such as climate change, land use transformation, direct exploitation, invasive species, and pollution—are altering these risk dynamics in ways not yet fully accounted for in current assessments.
A key challenge is that extinction risk assessments often take years to be completed, from data collection to expert evaluation and publication. This time lag means they may not accurately reflect a species’ current conservation status, particularly in light of rapidly emerging threats. Predicting how these threats will reshape extinction risk categories in the near future is a major scientific challenge. This information is crucial for designing conservation strategies to mitigate pressures on species that are not currently classified as threatened but are critically exposed to such risks.
To address these issues, we offer a PhD studentship focused on developing robust analytical frameworks for integrating emerging and future threats into extinction risk assessments. The project will devise methodological approaches to incorporate these dynamic pressures and apply them to empirical case studies, enhancing our ability to anticipate biodiversity loss under accelerating environmental change.
Candidate Profile
We seek a motivated and talented PhD candidate interested in global change and biodiversity conservation, with a focus on population ecology and environmental change.
Requirements:
- MSc in ecology, biology, environmental sciences, or related fields.
- Experience in conservation prioritisation, environmental change, and/or species risk assessments is advantageous.
- Strong analytical skills, including proficiency in R (and/or Matlab) and GIS.
- Ability to work collaboratively, share ideas, and engage in academic networking.
- Good writing skills and fluency in English.
What We Offer
- Duration & Scholarship: Initially a 3-year position with a stipend of approximately €31,000 per year, plus 31.4% social security coverage.
- Supervision: Joint supervision by Ana Benítez and Miguel B. Araújo.
- Research Environment: Integration into two vibrant international research groups at MNCN-CSIC (Madrid, Spain). See the Benítez and Araújo Lab pages for more details.
- Funding: Fully supported research project through ongoing grants at MNCN.
How to Apply
Send your application to Salvador Herrando Pérez at “salherra” [at] gmail [dot] com by 30 April 2025.
Application Materials:
- Comprehensive CV (max. 5 pages).
- Cover letter detailing your interest in the PhD position.
- Contact details for two referees who can provide references on your past work.
Email subject: “PhD Position in Biodiversity Risk Assessments”