Graduate Position at Departrment of Zoology, Univ. of Gothenburg, Sweden

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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.

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@zool.gu.se

Graduate Position at Departrment of Zoology, Univ. of Gothenburg, Sweden

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