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Postdoc Global mapping of Natural and Anthropogenic Erosion

  • Faculty of Science
  • 14866
  • PhD
  • €3.546 - €5.538
  • Closes on
    06-04-2026
Apply

Postdoc Global mapping of Natural and Anthropogenic Erosion

  • Faculty of Science
  • 14866
  • PhD
  • €3.546 - €5.538
  • Closes on
    06-04-2026
Apply

Working at the UvA

Join us!

Erosion constantly reshapes landscapes in response to tectonics, climate, and human land use. Today, excessive erosion driven by human activities has become an urgent global challenge with far-reaching environmental and societal consequences. Each year, fertile cropland with an area ~2.5 times the size of the Netherlands is lost, making erosion the leading driver of global land degradation.

This project aims to quantify erosion across a wide range of temporal scales, from millions of years to human timescales. It will evaluate potential biases among different measurement approaches —including thermochronology, cosmogenic nuclides, and suspended sediment records— and apply advanced statistical analyses and erosion modelling to identify key drivers of erosion through time. A central component involves compiling and synthesizing published datasets and leveraging open databases to enable large-scale, high-resolution (near-global) predictions of erosion patterns. In addition, the generation of new data, for example through remote sensing of suspended sediment, is encouraged and offers exciting research opportunities.

The 41-month position also offers considerable intellectual freedom for experienced researchers to pursue their own ideas, provided these align with the objectives of the Landscape Dynamics group. Led by Dr. Richard Ott, the group investigates the evolution of erosional landscapes and the use of geomorphic archives to reconstruct and predict past and future landscape dynamics. As a growing research group, it provides opportunities to strengthen your academic profile through (co-) supervision of PhD, MSc, and BSc students, as well as teaching (if desired). Especially attractive is the opportunity to collaborate with PhD researchers who are reconstructing the paleo-topography of the Northern Andes and investigating its influence on regional biodiversity.

 

Working at the UvA

Join us!

Erosion constantly reshapes landscapes in response to tectonics, climate, and human land use. Today, excessive erosion driven by human activities has become an urgent global challenge with far-reaching environmental and societal consequences. Each year, fertile cropland with an area ~2.5 times the size of the Netherlands is lost, making erosion the leading driver of global land degradation.

This project aims to quantify erosion across a wide range of temporal scales, from millions of years to human timescales. It will evaluate potential biases among different measurement approaches —including thermochronology, cosmogenic nuclides, and suspended sediment records— and apply advanced statistical analyses and erosion modelling to identify key drivers of erosion through time. A central component involves compiling and synthesizing published datasets and leveraging open databases to enable large-scale, high-resolution (near-global) predictions of erosion patterns. In addition, the generation of new data, for example through remote sensing of suspended sediment, is encouraged and offers exciting research opportunities.

The 41-month position also offers considerable intellectual freedom for experienced researchers to pursue their own ideas, provided these align with the objectives of the Landscape Dynamics group. Led by Dr. Richard Ott, the group investigates the evolution of erosional landscapes and the use of geomorphic archives to reconstruct and predict past and future landscape dynamics. As a growing research group, it provides opportunities to strengthen your academic profile through (co-) supervision of PhD, MSc, and BSc students, as well as teaching (if desired). Especially attractive is the opportunity to collaborate with PhD researchers who are reconstructing the paleo-topography of the Northern Andes and investigating its influence on regional biodiversity.

 

All about this vacancy

What are you going to do?

Tasks and responsibilities:

  • Compiling and analyzing large erosion data sets (thermochronology, cosmogenic nuclides, suspended sediment, etc.);
  • Statistical modelling of data to analyze drivers and make local and/or global predictions;
  • Model relevant processes (e.g., bedload sediment transport, sediment connectivity);
  • Mentor MSc and BSc students (potentially also PhD researchers);
  • If desired, take on teaching responsibilities in the field of landscape dynamics.

Your profile

Your experience and profile:

  • You have a PhD in Earth Sciences, Geography, or a related field;
  • You have a background or strong affinity with geomorphology (erosion, sediment transport/deposition, landscape change);
  • You enjoy working with large datasets and applying statistical analysis and modelling approaches;
  • You use scripting/programming in your research (e.g. Python, R, Matlab, Google Earth Engine);
  • You are comfortable compiling, managing, and analysing diverse datasets from different sources;
  • You enjoy collaborating in interdisciplinary research environments and support or mentor student researchers.

Our offer

We offer a temporary employment contract for preferably 38 hours per week for a period of 1 year, with the possibility to the extend the contract for another 29 months upon a positive evaluation of your performance. The preferred starting date is November 2026 but can be discussed. For this position the University Job Classification profile is Researcher level 4 applies. The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,546 to €5,538 (scale 10). In addition, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance.  

 A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants.

The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

 

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

  • 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
  • multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
  • a complete educational program for postdocs;
  • multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
  • multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
  • 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
  • partly paid parental leave;
  • the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
  • a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
  • the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;
  • help with registration at UvA- Housing for a studio or small apartment when you’re moving from abroad. 

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.

 

All about this vacancy

What are you going to do?

Tasks and responsibilities:

  • Compiling and analyzing large erosion data sets (thermochronology, cosmogenic nuclides, suspended sediment, etc.);
  • Statistical modelling of data to analyze drivers and make local and/or global predictions;
  • Model relevant processes (e.g., bedload sediment transport, sediment connectivity);
  • Mentor MSc and BSc students (potentially also PhD researchers);
  • If desired, take on teaching responsibilities in the field of landscape dynamics.

Your profile

Your experience and profile:

  • You have a PhD in Earth Sciences, Geography, or a related field;
  • You have a background or strong affinity with geomorphology (erosion, sediment transport/deposition, landscape change);
  • You enjoy working with large datasets and applying statistical analysis and modelling approaches;
  • You use scripting/programming in your research (e.g. Python, R, Matlab, Google Earth Engine);
  • You are comfortable compiling, managing, and analysing diverse datasets from different sources;
  • You enjoy collaborating in interdisciplinary research environments and support or mentor student researchers.

Our offer

We offer a temporary employment contract for preferably 38 hours per week for a period of 1 year, with the possibility to the extend the contract for another 29 months upon a positive evaluation of your performance. The preferred starting date is November 2026 but can be discussed. For this position the University Job Classification profile is Researcher level 4 applies. The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,546 to €5,538 (scale 10). In addition, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance.  

 A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants.

The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

 

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

  • 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
  • multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
  • a complete educational program for postdocs;
  • multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
  • multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
  • 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
  • partly paid parental leave;
  • the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
  • a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
  • the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;
  • help with registration at UvA- Housing for a studio or small apartment when you’re moving from abroad. 

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.

 

Your place at the UvA

About us

The Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED) is one of eight research institutes of the Faculty of Science at the University of Amsterdam. The research at IBED aims to unravel how ecosystems function in all their complexity, and how they change due to natural processes and human activities. At its core lies an integrated systems approach to study biodiversity, ecosystems and the environment. IBED adopts this systems approach to ecosystems, addressing abiotic (soil and water quality) and biotic factors (ecology and evolution of plants, animals, and microorganisms), and the interplay between those. The IBED vision includes research encompassing experimental and theoretical approaches at a wide variety of temporal and spatial scales, i.e. from molecules and microorganisms to patterns and processes occurring at the global scale. The University of Amsterdam has excellent high performance computing facilities. Furthermore, IBED has a dedicated computational support team with specialized knowledge of bioinformatics, (geo)database management and scientific programming. IBED also works with non-academic partners to deliver transdisciplinary science for society.

The position will be based in the Department of Ecosystem and Landscape Dynamics. The Ecosystem and Landscape Dynamics research department improves our understanding of the functioning and dynamics of abiotic and biotic components of (geo-)ecosystems across landscapes through time. You will be part of the newly established Landscape Dynamics group, which focuses on quantifying landscape change through time and linking these changes to geomorphological and ecological processes. The position offers strong opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, including with PhD researchers investigating mountain building in the Andes and its links to landscape evolution and regional biodiversity.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Your place at the UvA

This is where you will be working

About us

The Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED) is one of eight research institutes of the Faculty of Science at the University of Amsterdam. The research at IBED aims to unravel how ecosystems function in all their complexity, and how they change due to natural processes and human activities. At its core lies an integrated systems approach to study biodiversity, ecosystems and the environment. IBED adopts this systems approach to ecosystems, addressing abiotic (soil and water quality) and biotic factors (ecology and evolution of plants, animals, and microorganisms), and the interplay between those. The IBED vision includes research encompassing experimental and theoretical approaches at a wide variety of temporal and spatial scales, i.e. from molecules and microorganisms to patterns and processes occurring at the global scale. The University of Amsterdam has excellent high performance computing facilities. Furthermore, IBED has a dedicated computational support team with specialized knowledge of bioinformatics, (geo)database management and scientific programming. IBED also works with non-academic partners to deliver transdisciplinary science for society.

The position will be based in the Department of Ecosystem and Landscape Dynamics. The Ecosystem and Landscape Dynamics research department improves our understanding of the functioning and dynamics of abiotic and biotic components of (geo-)ecosystems across landscapes through time. You will be part of the newly established Landscape Dynamics group, which focuses on quantifying landscape change through time and linking these changes to geomorphological and ecological processes. The position offers strong opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, including with PhD researchers investigating mountain building in the Andes and its links to landscape evolution and regional biodiversity.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the ‘Apply’-button on the vacancy’s webpage. We accept applications until and including 6 April 2026.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your CV should be submitted in one single pdf file):

  • a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation (highlighting your past experiences and a project idea beyond the ones listed in the advertisement);
  • a list of publications;
  • the names and email addresses of two references who can provide letters of recommendation.

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure.(for details: national knowledge security guidelines)

The interviews will be held in the course of April. We will invite potential candidates for interviews soon after the closing date.

Do you have any questions, or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Dr. Richard Ott, Assistant Professor, [email protected]

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Read more
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the ‘Apply’-button on the vacancy’s webpage. We accept applications until and including 6 April 2026.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your CV should be submitted in one single pdf file):

  • a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation (highlighting your past experiences and a project idea beyond the ones listed in the advertisement);
  • a list of publications;
  • the names and email addresses of two references who can provide letters of recommendation.

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure.(for details: national knowledge security guidelines)

The interviews will be held in the course of April. We will invite potential candidates for interviews soon after the closing date.

Do you have any questions, or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Dr. Richard Ott, Assistant Professor, [email protected]

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

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