(Sorry for the duplicate. Here is the PhD advertise with the correct link to
apply)
The Marine Evolution and Conservation (MarECon) group at the Centre for
Ecological and Evolutionary Studies (CEES) has a vacancy for a (funded) PhD
position. CEES is placed within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
at the University of Groningen (RUG) in The Netherlands. The research conducted
by the members of MarECon is primarily aimed at understanding the ecological
and evolutionary genomics of pelagic marine organisms, in particular marine
mammals. Our primary research approach is to leverage population genetics and
genomics techniques to uncover the processes that partition genetic variation
within the species that inhabit this comparatively open marine environment.
This research is conducted with a global network of collaborators who collect
data and tissue samples in the field.
Job description
The research project is flexible and the successful candidate will have the
choice to focus on some ongoing projects in the lab. Most of these projects
include a major component of (genetic) data analyses and bioinformatics, some
include the production of genomic data in the lab (using Next Generation
Sequencing Technologies, NGS), and on rare occasion field sampling trips.
Comparative genomics in marine mammals
Our lab is actively engaged in the production and analyses of whole genomes
from marine mammals using NGS technologies. The ultimate goal is to analyze the
molecular evolution of genes across the genome of the three marine lineages of
mammals that came back to an aquatic existence and identify candidate genomic
regions that could have been involved in this major transition. This project
will consist of primarily bioinformatic, population genetic and genomic
approaches.
Evolution of marine trophic networks
Climate change and human activities have deeply impacted the evolution and
functioning of marine ecosystems. Using a number of model systems, we are
exploring how environmental and human perturbations have actually impacted
various species at different trophic levels, and further understand the link
between them. To make inferences about past and recent evolution of these
ecosystems, and make predictions about their future evolution we will be
combining ecological, historical and population genetic modeling.
Statistical phylogeography, demographic history and evolution in marine mammals
Our lab has a long standing interest in understanding the factors and processes
involved in the partitioning of individuals and thus the genetic variation
within and among populations, ecotypes and subspecies. This is fundamental to
understand key evolutionary and ecological processes, such as adaptation,
behaviour, and speciation. This is also crucial for many conservation issues.
Therefore, our approach is multidisciplinary and combines population
genetics/genomics, geo-statistical probabilistic modeling with ecological
approaches such as (paleo-) habitat modeling, feeding ecology, etc. Our
research focuses on various (pelagic) species, particularly for marine mammals.
For example, we are currently developing projects on the demographic history
and evolutionary genomics of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) and the
comparative phylogeography of marine mammals, among other projects.
Qualifications
We seek a bright and highly motivated and enthusiastic person able to work both
as part of a team and independently. The ideal candidate would have a master
degree in ecology and evolutionary biology, with good background in population
genetics, bioinformatics, genomics and computational biology.
Candidates from other programs such as computational sciences, bioinformatics,
and mathematics with a strong interest in ecology and evolution are also
invited to apply.
Proficiency with R statistical language, Linux/UNIX shell scripting, and (at
least) a high level programming language (e.g. Python) is recommended.
Experience with NGS technologies, Geographic Information System, SQL data bases
is a plus, but full training will be provided.
The language in the lab is English. A high standard of spoken and written
English is required.
Conditions of employment
The University of Groningen offers a salary of € 2,083 gross per month in the
first year up to a maximum of € 2,664 gross per month in the final year (salary
scale Dutch Universities). Initially, the position will be for 1 year with
possible extension of another 3 years, depending on performance during the
first year. The PhD candidate will be evaluated after the first year in order
to determine the likelihood of a successful completion of the PhD thesis within
the following three years. If a successful completion is deemed unlikely, the
employment will not be extended. The main objective of the position is to
conduct original research published as research articles in peer-reviewed
scientific journals. These publications will form the basis of the doctoral
thesis that will lead to obtaining a PhD degree (Dr) at the University of
Groningen. The candidate will be enrolled in the RUG Graduate School of
Science, and attend graduate courses within the Research School Ecology and
Evolution.
The PhD student will be supervised by Dr Michael C. Fontaine.
Application
To apply for the position, please provide: (i) a letter of maximum 2 pages
describing your personal motivation for applying for this position, outlining
skills and experience pertinent to the position and past experience. In
addition, please include a brief explanation of what you think the main
research questions in evolution and conservation are today for marine mammals
and that you would like to develop during your PhD; (ii) a complete curriculum
vitae including publication list; and (iii) names and contact details
(addresses, emails, and telephone numbers) for three referees willing to write
confidential letters of recommendation.
Complete applications should be submitted before 14 November 2014, Dutch local
time by means of the application form (“Apply” link) on the university website
:
http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us/job-opportunities/overview?details=00347-02S00048SP&cat=phd
Interviews will be planned shortly after November 2014.
The ideal starting date would be around January 2015.
Information
Advertise and “apply” link for the application on the university website:
http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us/job-opportunities/overview?details=00347-02S00048SP&cat=phd
Information on the PhD, contact Dr Michael C. Fontaine ([email protected],
do not use for applications)
Groningen, Netherlands: http://www.rug.nl/education/why-choose-groningen
The University of Groningen (RuG): http://www.rug.nl/about-us/work-with-us
CEES: http://www.rug.nl/research/cees
MarECon: http://www.rug.nl/research/marine-evolution-and-conservation
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Marine Evolution and Conservation
Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies
University of Groningen
Nijenborgh 7
9747 AG Groningen
The Netherlands
Email: [email protected]
Google scholar profile:
http://scholar.google.nl/citations?hl=en&user=rvFE0t4AAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate
http://michaelcfontaine.wordpress.com
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