Postdoc on DNA Solutions for a Transparent Timber Trade

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Testo originale dell'annuncio (in inglese)

Carrying out a postdoc at Naturalis in Leiden (the Netherlands) means working on research with a truly global impact — contributing directly to biodiversity. And you'll be well supported every step of the way. With 3,200 m² of state-of-the-art lab facilities, housed in a museum with more than 40 million natural history objects, dedicated mentorship, and access to our broad international network, this position offers everything you need to thrive as a scientist. As a Postdoc You will find yourself in a unique research environment, inspired by passionate scientists from a wide range of disciplines in biodiversity research (e.g., taxonomy, evolution, genomics, ecology, and geology). You will receive dedicated supervision from experienced researchers and work closely with international experts and collaborators with whom you will regularly exchange ideas about your research. This will help you develop a strong academic profile. You will build valuable connections by participating in both academic and social activities of our PhD and postdoc community. This is wat you'll be doing You will be part of Naturalis’ plans to upscale and accelerate species identification and provenancing of plant species. More specifically, this postdoc project will (1) Establish DNA reference databases based on fresh/herbarium leaves for robust identification and tracing of timber species, and (2) develop identification and tracing case studies based on DNA of fresh and xylarium wood samples, (3) engage with the different Dutch authorities responsible for implementing the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and (4) help in the organisation of a large international wood conference hosted by Naturalis (including an illegal logging stakeholder event). This project aims to support customs officers in the field in combating illegal logging and demonstrates Naturalis’ ambition to use its scientific collection to help address global societal challenges. Illegal logging is the third most profitable global crime, worth an estimated €50–150 billion each year. Therefore, the European Union will introduce stricter trade rules (EUDR) from the end of 2026 onwards, but these regulations can only succeed if modern species identification and tracing methods can be upscaled, accelerated, and implemented by (non-)academic stakeholders. In this position, you will engage with both (inter)national academic and non-academic stakeholders in the field of illegal logging. Here's what we have to offer A one-year contract with possible extension with 1.5 years after successful evaluation, the preferred starting date is November 2026. A gross monthly starting salary between €3,768.- and - €4,897.- gross/month for a full-time contract (36 hours). End-of-year bonus of 3.4% of your gross annual salary and 8% holiday pay. 27 days of leave per year with full-time employment. Plus 1 extra day that you can use for a holiday that is important to you. Commuting allowance depending on your means of transport. Pension scheme via PFZW, where Naturalis pays 60% of your premium. Plenty of development opportunities. We support your growth and give you unlimited access to the online training platform Goodhabitz. Fascinating knowledge events. These help you stay up to date on the latest developments in both your own field and outside it, such as our lectures and gatherings on various (scientific) topics. You can also attend – or take part in – the internal information session ‘Naturalis Draait Door’. Nice extras such as discounts on software and hardware for private use, collective health insurance plans, and a bicycle scheme. You’ll also enjoy discounts in our museum restaurant and unlimited free access to our award-winning museum for you and your family. A laptop and mobile phone allowance. Fun team outings. We also get together for drinks every month, organise an annual BBQ and a fantastic New Year's party. Not your scene? That's fine too, of course. All team activities are voluntary. A unique wo