Universität St. Gallen, HSG, Schule + Forschung

SNSF research associate/ postdoc in indigenous/community-led bioeconomies in the Amazon

📍 9000 St.Gallen

Role and responsibilities

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 contribute to policy briefs and stakeholder dialogues. Present findings at international conferences and workshops. Support grant writing and project engagement with global research partners.

Team / description

The Institute of Management in Latin America (GIMLA) is part of the University of St. Gallen. GIMLA has a small and collaborative team that conducts interdisciplinary research and teaching on socio-economic, political, and environmental transformations in Latin America, with a strong focus on sustainability, development, and governance. The Institute provides a collaborative academic environment that supports field-based research, international collaboration, and it is closely integrated into the University of St. Gallen's internationally oriented research landscape.

Qualifications and Skills

  • 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.