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 sub-departments: 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.
Applicantsmustprovide 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 fieldof 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 :
For more information please contact Alejandro Gonzalez Voyer: