The State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart (SMNS) is one of the largest
and most popular natural history museums in Germany. As a modern research
museum, we see ourselves as a bridge between science and society and provide a
vibrant platform for dialogue and exchange. Innovation emerges where
cutting-edge research meets our unique collections and creative communication.
We are passionately committed to preserving biodiversity. Our goal is to
safeguard the foundations of life and thereby contribute to shaping a positive
future.

Our motto, “In the name of diversity,” guides the work of our 180 employees
from around the world. We value diverse talents and perspectives, foster team
spirit, and place great importance on a positive and respectful working
environment.

We are looking to fill a position as soon as possible for a


Postdoc (m/f/d)

"Do single traits synergize to boost macroevolution?

- Why are there so many orchid species?"

Full-time (100%), for 2 years

Remuneration according to TV-L E13

Applications accepted until 12/04/2026


Project and job description:

The SMNS is seeking for a creative and innovative person to fill a postdoc
position in macroevolution with strong data science skills to lead a research
project that will contribute to better understanding the impact and interaction
of functional traits in angiosperms. The project aims to compare
diversification rates among orchids and other angiosperms exhibiting specific
traits. This project addresses a key research question at the SMNS ‘What key
innovations drive evolutionary success’? The interdisciplinary team includes
experts from the Botany Department (Thiv, Liancourt, Ferenc, Krause) and the
Palaeontology Department (Roth-Nebelsick, Amson).

Requirements:

The successful candidate has a Ph.D. in
Phylogenetics/Ecology/Biogeography/Macroecology or related fields and should
moreover have the following skills and assets


- comprehensive expertise in modern phylogenetic statistics (incl.
diversification rate analyses, supertree building) with strong background in
handling large datasets (e.g., functional traits, phylogeny and ecological data)
- strong communication skills (oral and written), evidenced by participation
in conferences and publications in international scientific journals
- team-player skills with an interest in participating in interdisciplinary
research projects
- ability to supervise students
- excellent command of English; basic knowledge of German desired


Our offer:


- a full-time position remunerated according to TV-L E13 for 2 years (the
advertised position can be filled on a part-time basis)
- involvement in ongoing research projects
- the opportunity to continue your career in an internationally renowned
research museum with first-class infrastructure and in close cooperation with
the University of Hohenheim
- an attractive workplace in the center of Stuttgart
- flextime, family-friendly working hours as well as the possibility to work
remotely part of the time, if responsibilities permit
- a monthly subsidy for the JobTicket BW
- participation in occupational health management
- support in acquiring basic German language skill


How to apply:

Applications in German and English are equally welcome. The position should
be filled as soon as possible. Please submit your electronic application
including a cover letter, CV/resume, three references, list of publications, in
a single PDF file (max 10 MB) topostdoc-botany@smns-bw.de by April 12, 2026at
the latest. Furthermore, please attach three key publications as PDFs. Job
interviews are scheduled forApril 23, 2026.

For further information, please contact PD Dr. Mike Thiv (phone: +49
(0)711/8936-205, email:mike.thiv@smns-bw.de).

We strongly encourage women to apply. Diversity and inclusion are central to
our philosophy. Applications from persons with severe disabilities will be
given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified. Since 2019, we
have held the audit berufundfamilie certificate and offer proven family- and
life-stage-conscious working conditions.

Data protection information for applicants can be found on our homepage under
"Jobs".