Postdoctoral position in Ethology at the Department of Zoology at Stockholm
University. Closing date 1 October 2015.
Project description
A fully funded 2-year post-doctoral position is available at the Zoology Department
(Ethology) at Stockholm University. The candidate can chose to work within either
or both of two potential projects. For the first project, developed in collaboration
with Dr Björn Rogell at Stockholm University, we are looking for a person with
demonstrated experience in experiments using fish as model system. This project
involves work on the effects of lifestyle on life history and behaviour using killifish
as a model system. Killifish are an excellent model system because of their strong
contrasts in lifestyle: some species live in temporary water bodies which completely
dry out and only the eggs survive by going into diapause (annual species), whereas
other species live in permanent water bodies and do not present diapause. The
different species thus present marked differences in longevity and other life history
traits. We currently have stocks of several annual and non-annual killifish species in
the lab allowing the postdoctoral researcher to develop diverse experiments
analyzing the influence of lifestyle on life history and behaviour. There is ample
freedom to develop projects which match the chosen candidate’s interests.
The second project involves macro-evolutionary analyses of morphology and
behaviour in relation to diversification patterns in the most important Caribbean
amphibian radiation, the family Eleutherodactylus. For this project the candidate
must demonstrate experience in the use of modern phylogenetic comparative
methods. Potential projects can involve rate of phenotypic evolution, analyses of
diversification, community phylogenetics, song evolution, etc.
The position will most likely involve research stays at the Universidad Nacional
Autónoma de México, particularly for candidates working on the second project.
The Department of Zoology was founded in 1880, it is divided into five subdepartments: ecology, ethology, functional morphology, population genetics and
systematics and evolution and there is much integration and collaboration among
sub-departments. Current research in the Department of Zoology is focused on
animal evolution, ecology and behaviour, with a broad spectrum from nervous
system to ecosystem involving model organisms from fruit flies and butterflies to
fishes, birds and large mammals. The Department offers an international and
stimulating work environment.
Applicants must provide a written report about previous scientific activity and
experience and how they comply with the requirements of the project applicants are
interested in.
Eligibility and selection criteria
The applicant must have a doctoral degree from an accredited college/university in
Biology or a similar field of studies. For the postdoctoral position, the PhD degree
should have been received no more than three years before the deadline for
applications. Among qualified applicants selection is made according to scientific
merits, quality of the PhD thesis, the applicant´s documented knowledge in subjects
of relevance for the research area, ability to master English language (both spoken
and written), analytical ability, initiative, independence and ability to cooperate. In
filling the position, particular weight will be given to research proficiency,
experience with an experimental approach to tackle evolutionary questions and
experience keeping fish stocks in a laboratory environment. The working language
in Stockholm University is English, and even everyday life in Stockholm is very
simple with English.
Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with
equal opportunities for all.
Employment conditions.
The position is for two years, full time. The starting date is negoatiable but
preference will be given for candidates who can begin work in 2015.
Application
Applications must include a CV, list of publications and a cover letter describing
research interests, qualifications and reasons for the application. The letter should
also contain possible starting dates and contact information of three references.
Please follow the instructions available here :
http://www.su.se/english/about/vacancies/vacancies-new-list?cache=%2Fstudyinformation%2Fstudent-and-teacher-exchange%2Fincoming-students-tostockholm-university
For more information please contact Alejandro Gonzalez Voyer:
a.gonzalezvoyer@zoologi.su.se