Research Associate (m/f) - European Spatial Development and Territorial Cooperation

The Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) invites applications for the following position (duration of employment according to the German Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz), open from 01.01.2013 to 31.12.2015:

Research Associate (m/f)

in the field of

European Spatial Development and Territorial Cooperation

Full time (TV-L)

The Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) investigates cause-and-effect relationships between the natural environment and society, and the options available for influencing them. Particular attention is paid to the global and regional challenges of urban and regional development, for example those posed by climate change and demographic change. We are concerned with how cities and regions can be developed with reasonable effort (1) to offer the population the greatest possible quality of environment and life and to provide nature with far-ranging scope for development, (2) to ensure urban and regional resource efficiency, and (3) prevent environmental risks.

The issue of spatial development at a European scale provides an important reference for the research work undertaken at the IOER. Policy discourses, programmes and regulations addressing European spatial development provide key orientations and motives for national, regional and local stakeholders in Europe. This includes in particular the Territorial Agenda of the European Union 2020, the territorial cooperation objective of the structural funds (INTERREG), the macro-regional strategies initiatives, the European Groupings of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC), as well as the European Spatial Planning Observatory Network (ESPON). The IOER is an active player in this evolving context of policies and practices and wishes to further strengthen its capacity to address related issues of relevance for a sustainable urban and regional development.

Tasks:

The successful candidate will be responsible for analysing EU spatial development and territorial cooperation policies and their shaping, following the pertinent decision making processes and programme implementation on all levels (EU, Member states and regions, including border regions). He/she will undertake targeted research work, develop project proposals in cooperation with various stakeholders and pursue the acquisition of funding. Further related tasks are to manage relevant network relations in science and practice, to contribute to research programming at the IOER, and to coordinate an internal working group focusing on spatial development in Central and Eastern Europe.

Requirements:

We are looking for an experienced professional with a strong record of achievements in the field outlined above. Several years of research or practical work, a sound knowledge of the relevant European institutions, policies and actor networks, as well as pertinent scientific publications are a fundamental requirement. Candidates must have a university degree (diploma or master) and excellent English language skills. Project management and communication abilities are equally indispensable. Further academic degrees and German language skills would be an asset.

We promote equal opportunities. Applications from women or handicapped persons are therefore especially invited.

Please send your complete application by 30.11.2012 to:

Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development

Personalbüro (ESD)
Weberplatz 1

01217 Dresden