SNSF research associate​/postdoc in indigenous​/community-led bioeconomies Amazon; m​/w​/d

The Institute of Management in Latin America (GIMLA) is part of the University of St. Gallen. It conducts interdisciplinary research and teaching on socio‑economic, political, and environmental transformations in Latin America, with a strong focus on sustainability, development, and governance.

• Lead and co‑design research on Indigenous bioeconomy models in the Brazilian Amazon, with particular focus on traditional and forest‑based production systems, food‑water‑land security, and climate resilience.
• Conduct fieldwork and community‑engaged research (minimum 4 months), preferably with Indigenous and local communities in Pará or neighboring Amazonian regions.
• Synthesize qualitative and quantitative data, including traditional ecological knowledge, to generate policy‑relevant research outputs.
• Contribute to publications in high‑impact academic venues and to policy briefs and stakeholder dialogues.
• Present findings at international conferences and workshops.
• Support grant writing and project engagement with global research partners.

• PhD in Environmental Social Sciences, Sociology, Anthropology, Human Geography, Political Ecology, Development Studies, Agroecology, or related fields.
• Extensive fieldwork experience in the Brazilian Amazon, preferably in Pará.
• Proven expertise in bioeconomy, agroforestry, rural development, or socio‑environmental governance.
• Strong experience with participatory and community‑engaged research methods.
• Publication record or demonstrated research impact.
• Fluency in spoken and written English and Brazilian Portuguese.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to collaborative international projects.

• Prior work with Indigenous Peoples and Ribeirinho communities.
• Experience engaging with public policies, territorial governance, or development programs in the Amazon.
• Academic and professional networks in Pará and the wider Amazon region.
• Experience bridging academia, policy, and community practice.

• One‑year postdoc/researcher position within a stimulating, interdisciplinary research environment at a leading European university.
• Close collaboration with an internationally connected research group.
• Support for international mobility and field research.
• Competitive salary and benefits in accordance with SNSF and University of St. Gallen regulations.
• Strong support for publication, dissemination, and policy engagement.

Applications should be submitted via the university website, with a CV, list of publications, a short (2‑page) research statement, and two contact references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For questions, please contact vanessa.boanada and felix.hotzsg.ch.