GIS Scientist (m/f/x) – measuring and mapping nocturnal lightscapes

The Department Community and Ecosystem Ecology at the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB, www.igb-berlin.de ) is inviting applications for the position of GIS Scientist for an immediate start within the LUMEN project (Adapting to the Light: Mosquito Behaviour, Human Exposure and Vector Control in a Changing Climate). This new One Health Platform project, funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), focuses on the growing threat posed by mosquito-borne viruses in Europe due to environmental changes, such as rising temperatures, urbanisation, and artificial light at night (ALAN). These changes alter mosquito habitats and influence transmission dynamics. As part of the LUMEN consortium, the IGB subproject will quantify the impact of temperature and ALAN on mosquito development, fitness and vector competence. These findings will be crucial for developing targeted prevention strategies. Your tasks Advancing a comprehensive quantitative understanding of the light and thermal environments in mosquito habitats through the integration of satellite- and ground-based measurements, i.e.: analysing satellite data and other remote sensing products, as well as datasets on near-surface air temperature, mapping of studied mosquito habitats in relation to ALAN and temperature, and ground-based night-time light measurements at the experimental sites. Your profile MSc or equivalent degree in geography, ecology, environmental sciences, physics or a related field Good knowledge of general ecology and light physics Sound knowledge of the causes and effects of light pollution Ability to work with GIS programs Ability to develop code in R or Python Ability to analyse remote sensing data Ability to measure downwelling spectral irradiance and spatially resolved multi-spectral radiance at experimental sites Experience with light propagation models Very good English communication skills; German skills desirable Excellent social skills and ability to work in a diverse international team Our offer We offer an interesting position in an international and dynamic scientific environment. We foster flat hierarchies and active participation. We allow maximum individual freedom, enabling everyone to develop and use their creativity to the best of their abilities. Salary is paid according to the German salary scheme for the public sector (TVöD Bund). Depending on the personal qualifications and the tasks assigned, the position will be paid up to E13. It is a half-time position with 19.5 working hours per week. It is a fixed-term position, initially limited until 30.06.2029. We foster your career development by providing qualification and training opportunities. We actively support the reconciliation of work and family life . The IGB is committed to diversity . We welcome every qualified application, regardless of sex and gender, origin, nationality, religion, belief, health and disabilities, age or sexual orientation. IGB is committed to increasing the number of women in this field, therefore applications from women are particularly welcome. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualification and aptitude will be given preferential consideration. Are you interested? We look forward to receiving your application by 14.09.2026 with the usual documents (motivation letter and statement of research interests, CV, publication list, certificates, contact details of 3 referees) . Please state the job reference number 11/2026 and apply exclusively via our recruitment platform at www.igb-berlin.de/en/jobs . Questions can be directed to PD Dr, Franz Hölker by phone (+49 30 64181665) or by e-mail ( [email protected] ). "Research for the future of our freshwaters" is the mission of IGB – Germany’s largest and one of the leading international centres for freshwater research. In order to investigate different aspects of freshwater ecosystems, their biota and societal relevance, we unit a wide range of disciplines and understand research as a joint effort. With more than 400 employees and guests from all over the world, we conduct research at five locations in Berlin and at Lake Stechlin (Brandenburg). IGB is a member of the German Leibniz Association and the Forschungsverbund Berlin e. V. www.igb-berlin.de