The National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences (NIAES) invites qualified applications for one position as Research Scientist (Tenure Track Researcher) on the study of the Evaluation of Biodiversity Impacts and Management Priority of Alien Plant Species in Agricultural Ecosystems
Agriculture is a fundamental production activity supported by a multitude of benefits from ecosystems, which are referred to as ecosystem services. One important source of ecosystem services is biodiversity. Thus, to sustainably maintain agriculture, it is essential to conserve biodiversity.
Recently, the environment surrounding agriculture has changed rapidly, and the increase in alien species due to economic globalization has been resulting in more serious impacts on agricultural ecosystems. Thus, the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan, have published the List of Invasive Alien Species, to achieve a goal of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, which aims to control or eradicate invasive alien species assigned high management priority. To evaluate the management priority of alien species which should be controlled or eradicated, however, further research is necessary to understand the invasion pathways, invasiveness, and hybridization potential of alien species.
The successful candidate is expected to focus on alien plant species which are mainly introduced for the improvement of agricultural production, to investigate their invasiveness, and their effects on biodiversity in/around agricultural ecosystems, and to develop a method to prioritize alien plant species, which should be appropriately managed or controlled, taking the benefits from the use of the alien species into account.
Candidates must have acquired a doctorate in a relevant research area by the time of their employment. Candidates must be proficient in English and must be willing to master moderate to a good level of Japanese conversation skills during their employment. Candidates must have extensive field research experience, and have a good grounding in ecological analysis and conservation biology. Moreover, candidates are required to possess the strong desire and technical knowledge indispensable for ecological research.
(1) Curriculum Vitae printed on A4-size papers with a portrait photograph attached on the top page (include contact address together with e-mail address)
(2) List of publications and achievements
(3) Reprints or copies of five most significant research articles published
(4) Summary of research activities printed on two A4 pages
(5) Personal views on research after employment printed on two A4 pages
(6) Names and addresses of two persons who can provide information regarding the applicant
Principal Research Director
National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences
3-1-3 Kan-nondai
Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8604
Japan
Tel. +81 29 838 8143
Fax. +81 29 838 8199
E-mail: saiyou@niaes.affrc.go.jp
(1) Preliminary selection based on the submitted material
(2) Personal interview for which candidates are expected to visit NIAES at their own expense