The Carinthia University of Applied Sciences offers a wide range of study programs in the fields of technology, business, health and social sciences. A common feature of all areas is the practical and application-oriented focus of teaching and research as well as the close cooperation between public institutions, business and science. General information on our courses, research activities and the organization of the university can be found on our homepage www.fh-kaernten.at.
Established in 2020, the UNESCO Chair for Management of Conservation Areas (MCA) aims to contribute to the global
network of UNESCO Chairs by advancing the concepts of "Nature Conservation in the 21st Century." In your role, you will support our (currently) four research groups in developing flagship projects, ensuring scientific excellence,
and shaping the long‐term vision of the research centre. Your work will help define future research priorities, foster innovation, and drive impactful contributions to the sustainable management of conservation areas. You will play an active role in the I.C.E.B., helping to shape the strategic and content‐related development of the research centre.
Key Researcher for Biodiversity &
Conservation Technologies (m/f/d)
Job profile and tasks
As a Key Researcher & Professor, you will play a central role in advancing the mission of the UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Management of Conservation Areas. In this position, you will serve as the Deputy Head of the Department, which is part of the newly established Interdisciplinary Research Centre for Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity (I.C.E.B.). Your responsibilities will encompass scientific leadership, strategic development, representation, academic teaching, and the advancement of educational programs, all aimed at driving innovation and excellence in evidence‐based management of biodiversity and ecosystem services. Of course, you will carry out your own research projects.
- Scientific Leadership: Lead and coordinate research groups in the development and implementation of highquality, cutting‐edge projects in relevant technologies and innovative approaches in biodiversity research.
- Representation: Represent activities of the UNESCO Chair and the I.C.E.B. internally and externally, building strong relationships with key partners, stakeholders, and funding bodies.
- Academic Teaching: Deliver academic teaching in programs such as the Bachelor’s in Green Transition Engineering, the Master’s in Management of Conservation Areas.
- Independent Research: Dedicate 50% of your time to developing and implementing your own research projects, aligned with the goals of the UNESCO Chair and the I.C.E.B.
- Strategic Development: Secure funding and grants to support research activities and contribute to the longterm strategic vision of adapting, developing and testing new technologies for research in biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Your Profile
We are looking for an experienced scientist with an excellent research track record, substantial teaching experience, proven leadership in managing scientific teams, and a strong ability to collaborate across disciplines.
- A PhD conservation biology, ecology or in a related field (e.g., physical geography), with expertise in technol‐ogy‐based recording and monitoring of biodiversity (e.g., acoustic, optical, sensor‐based methods, remote sensing) and technology‐driven analytical tools (e.g., statistics, modeling, AI, GIS).
- Additionally, a profound understanding of at least one of the following ecosystems: forests, agricultural eco‐systems, or mountain ecosystems.
- At least 10 years of professional experience in applied research or in a company (e.g., consulting, planning), with a proven track record of publications, academic research, and teaching.
- Demonstrated ability to lead interdisciplinary teams and manage large‐scale projects.
- An entrepreneurial mindset with a strategic approach to identifying emerging trends, technologies, and socie‐tal needs, and translating them into innovative project proposals.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in German and additional language skills are an advantage.
- A proactive thinker with the ability to anticipate future challenges & align them with the research center’s goals.
- A team‐oriented individual with a precise, reliable work ethic and the ability to inspire project partners, funding bodies, and stakeholders.
Our Offer
Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (CUAS) appreciates the motivation and great commitment of its employees and offers family-friendly conditions. We provide support with a diverse continuing education program and promote individual measures.
- Scope of employment: Full‐time (with flexible working conditions).
- Contract duration: 5 years, ideally starting in October 2025 (negotiable), with the possibility of extension, which is desired.
- Place of employment: Campus Villach, Europastrasse 4, 9524 Villach.
- Minimum salary: €5,200.23 gross per month (for full‐time employment), negotiable based on qualifications and experience.
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in academia.
Application deadline: July, 10th, 2025
Apply now and join our team in advancing biodiversity research and promoting sustainable green innovations in tradi‐tional craftsmanship!
Application
- Please upload your complete application documents via our homepage at http://www.fh‐kaernten.at/jobs. Please note that your application may only be included in the selection process if you upload your full application via our homepage (data protection, DSGVO).
- Required documents:
o Letter of motivation
o Curriculum vitae incl. photo
o Proof of education and practical experience
o List of publications and PDF of 2‐3 relevant publications - Expected timeline for the application process:
o Application deadline: July 10, 2025.
o Online interviews: July 20–22, 2025.
o Proposed start date: October 1, 2025 (negotiable). - Please note: We regret that we are unable to reimburse travel costs or other expenses related to participation in the selection process.
We look forward to receiving your detailed application.
