Graduate Position, Dept of Zoology, Univ. of Gothenburg, Sweden

April 5, 2010

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Graduate Position, Dept of Zoology, Univ. of Gothenburg, Sweden
Graduate position:
HEADING: UGothenburg.ColourRadiationWeaverbirds
DEADLINE: 30 April 2010

PhD Student Position at Dept of Zoology, Univ. of Gothenburg, Sweden
Colour signalling and adaptive radiation in African weaverbirds

PhD project
You will use phylogenetic and comparative methods to explore
carotenoid colour signals and adaptive diversification in African
weaverbirds (Ploceidae, ca. 120 species). You will work in the ECCO
group (Evolution of Colour Communication) and collaborate on model-
based comparative methods within the faculty platform Centre for
Theoretical Biology. Phylogenetic and comparative analyses are central
aims, since much sequence and phenotypic data already have been
collected. However, you will also (depending on your profile and
skills) take part in either or both ecophysiological and behavioural
(field and aviary) studies of carotenoid-based signals in species of
particular interest. Biochemical (HPLC) and molecular systematic lab
work is carried out in Gothenburg, field and aviary studies in
Tanzania. Main international collaborators will be at the University
of Cambridge, UK (molecular genetics), University of Pretoria, South
Africa (comparative methods), and Sokoine University of Agriculture,
Tanzania (fieldwork).

Qualifications
Desirable theoretical skills include basic molecular systematics and
phylogenetic comparative methods, combined with knowledge and
dedicated interest in evolution, behavioral ecology and birds.
Experiences with relevant software and programming skills (especially
R) would be great bonuses. Desirable practical skills and experiences
are basic molecular systematic (PCR, sequencing) and/or biochemical
(HPLC) labwork, field ornithology and bird handling. Field biology or
at least travel experience in the tropics is also valuable. Excellent
written and spoken English is essential, as are social competence and
cooperative ability.

Starting in June 2010 (subject to negotiation), the successful
candidate will be awarded a full-time study grant
(‘utbildningsbidrag’) for two years, followed by two additional years
on a full-time doctoral studentship (‘doktorandtjänst’). Normally, the
PhD student will be expected to devote 20% of their time to
undergraduate teaching, which extends the PhD appointment to five
years in total.

Web sites:

www.zoologi.gu.se/forskning/Ekologisk+zoologi/Evolution_av_f_rgkommunikation

www.ctbio.science.gu.se/english/

The application should include 1) a letter in English (one page)
specifying your motivation for applying for the position, 2)
Curriculum Vitae, 3) Attested copies of education and relevant work
certificates, 4) Copies of thesis / publications, if any, and 5) Name
and contact details of a reference person, alternatively a written
letter of recommendation.

The application should be sent to:
University of Gothenburg
Department of Zoology
Att: Ann-Sofie Olsson,
Box 463
SE-405 30 Göteborg, Sweden

The application should be received by 30 April 2010.
Mark the application, ref nr: B 311 138/10 -(5)

For further information on the position and how to apply, contact the
main supervisor, Prof. Staffan Andersson, tel +46 (0)31-786 3647, fax
+46 (0)31-41 67 29, email: staffan.andersson-at-zool.gu.se

Scholarship Tags: PhD, Sweden