Postdoctoral researcher in Evolutionary Genomics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

A position as a postdoctoral researcher in Evolutionary Genomics is available at the Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Program.

The Department of Ecology and Genetics is an international environment with staff and students from all over the world. Our research spans from evolutionary ecology and genetics to studies of ecosystems. For more information, see www.ieg.uu.se.

Our lab is part of the Evolutionary Biology Program that excels in many aspects of genetics and evolution and offers an inspiring international atmosphere (https://www.ieg.uu.se/evolutionary-biology/). There are ample opportunities for interaction with other PostDocs, PhD-students and researchers working on related topics. We are tightly linked to the Science for Life Laboratory (https://www.scilifelab.se/) and have access to advanced laboratory infrastructure, high performance computing resources and long-term bioinformatics support. The project is a collaboration with CSIC Barcelona and it might be possible to perform some of the work at that institution.

Project description: Migration is a widespread phenomenon in animals. It is a behavior that allows organisms to adapt to variation in resource availability throughout the year, but migration can also be associated with high risks. The study of evolutionary advantages of migration and the cost-benefit balance associated with this behavior is specially needed in insects, for which our knowledge to date is very limited. A fundamental difference exists between vertebrate and insect migrations. As opposed to vertebrates, insect migrations are often multigenerational, meaning that not the same individuals, but their offspring complete migratory circuits. Migratory strategies vary significantly and may include long and/or short distances, seasonal diapause or year-round migrations, and different numbers of generations can be involved. In this project, the aim is to develop a theoretical modelling approach to characterize the impact of migratory behavior on maintenance/loss/gain of genetic diversity for a variety of migratory strategies found in butterflies. The modelling will be combined with analysis of large-scale population genomic data with particular focus on the painted lady (Vanessa cardui), a nearly cosmopolitan species with complex migratory patterns.

Duties: Development of theoretical models to assess allele frequency changes associated with different migratory/sedentary strategies; large-scale population genomic analyses of available re-sequence data.

Qualifications required: For this position the candidate must hold a PhD degree in mathematical modelling in biology, evolutionary biology, genetics/genomics, bioinformatics or another relevant field. A background in development of theoretical models is necessary, as is experience in analyses of next-generation sequencing data. We attach great importance to personal qualities such as collaboration skills, ability to work independently, scientific maturity and creativity. Candidates must be able to express themselves fluently in spoken as well as written English.

To be eligible the candidate must have a PhD degree, or a foreign degree equivalent to this, completed less than three years before the application deadline. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

Qualifications desired: The ideal candidate is highly motivated and enthusiastic about evolutionary biology and has a good understanding of modelling, population genetics and evolution theory. Thorough experience with scripting/programming and working with migratory organisms is advantageous.

Instructions for the application: The application should include 1) a letter of intent describing yourself, your research interests and motivation of why you want to work as a postdoctoral researcher and why you are suitable for the position, 2) a CV 3) a short description of your education, 4) a copy of your PhD degree, your grades and a copy of your thesis, 5) name and contact information to at least two reference persons (e-mail address and phone no.), 6) relevant publications. The application should be written in English.

Salary: Individual salary.

Starting date: 2020-07-01, or as agreed upon.

Type of employment: Temporary full-time position for 24 months, according to central collective agreement.

Scope of employment: 100%.

For further information about the position please contact: Senior Lecturer, Niclas Backström, niclas.backstrom@ebc.uu.se, +46 18 471 64 15.

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 2020-04-10, UFV-PA 2020/914.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.