Post Doctoral Research Associate - Consequences of food systems on biodiversity

Role Description

Research Centre & Department

The Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity is a research centre of academics from a wide range of disciplines collaborating  to increase knowledge of how the relationship between humanity and the natural world is changing, and how we might maintain and develop a sustainable Earth and bring about positive change. The position is linked to the Stockholm Environment Institute - York Centre , and will be line managed by Jon Green (SEI) with mentorship from Jack Hatfield (Biology), Jon Pitchford (Mathematics) and Kathryn Arnold (Environment and Geography).

Role

We’re seeking an enthusiastic Postdoctoral Researcher to explore how production and trade dynamics in international food systems affect biodiversity.  This project aims to understand the impacts of rapid and longer term spatial agricultural shifts, due to international trade networks, on biodiversity, considering losses and gains and how this can be used to allow more direct comparison of national biodiversity indicators with international impacts. You will have advanced skills and knowledge of statistical analysis, research computing and Geographic Information Systems in relation to the analysis of biodiversity and food production systems.

Key Responsibilities include:

• To plan, coordinate, develop and undertake world-leading individual and collaborative research to increase the understanding of how rapid and longer term rearrangements in global agricultural production affect biodiversity.

• To write up research findings and disseminate through publications, seminar and conference presentations, and through outreach activities.

• Facilitate Centre objectives through development of ongoing interdisciplinary research, and identification of possible new areas of research.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications needed

• Undergraduate degree and PhD in an appropriate subject area.

• Knowledge of land-use change, biodiversity and/or global trade including a range of relevant research methodologies and expertise in an area which complements LCAB’s research goals. 

• High competence in the analysis of spatial and geographic data (as appropriate to discipline). 

• Ability to write up research for high profile publications and competency in presenting work at conferences/other appropriate events.

• Excellent communication skills with experience of engagement across disciplines and with non-academic audiences.

• Ability to develop  own and collaborative research, identify sources of funding and contribute to securing these with the assistance of a mentor if required. 

• Experience of and capacity to carry out independent and collaborative research.

Applicants are requested to provide a short outline (max. 1 page; font size 11) describing their proposed approach to one or more of the research goals. The focus of the work will be developed collaboratively on appointment. 

Interview date: June 2026.  The post must commence by 30th Sept 2026. 

For informal enquiries: please contact jonathan.green@york.ac.uk

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview.  Read more about the University of York’s commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.