Doctoral student in Biology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Projectdescription
Genomics and evolution of bird migration
It is firmly established that the migratory program of naïve song birds is genetically hard-wired. But which genes that encode for variation in migratory direction, distance and timing are yet to be identified. This research is now possible due to the rapidly improving methods in genomic ecology and by the possibilities to obtain details of the migratory path by using light-level geolocators. The aim of the project is to contribute with fundamental advancement towards the goal of understanding the genetic architecture of the migratory behavior of songbirds. The project extends from long-term studies on the genetics of migration in willow warblers. Depending on skills and interest, the candidate will have the opportunity to take part, in three different lines of research. 1) Locate the genomic position of previously identified genomic regions associated with migration direction in willow warblers by developing karyotyping combined with FISH (Fluorescence in situ hybridization). 2) Generate migration track data from the closest relative to the willow warbler, the chiffchaff, by using light-level geolocators of birds from different subspecies. The track data will be combined with genome re-sequencing to identify genomic regions that encode variation in migratory propensity, direction and distance. 3) The willow warbler and chiffchaff belong to a species rich genus (Phylloscopus) showing huge diversity of migration phenotypes. Comparative genomic analyses of selected species within the genus Phylloscopus have the potential to reveal common genomic regions involved in migration differences.

Required qualifications
We seek a bright and highly motivated candidate with strong interest in this particular project. Excellent spoken and written English is a requirement. The successful applicant should have a Degree in Master of Science in Biology or equivalent education in Evolutionary Biology or Molecular Ecology, with specialization in migration ecology or molecular ecology. Previous experience of species identification, capturing and blood sampling of wild passerine birds are strongly meritorious.

It is highly desirable that the applicant has documented experience of laboratory work using molecular techniques (PCR, Sanger-sequencing and quantitative PCR), bioinformatics (NGS-data) and a solid knowledge of basic statistical analyses in R. Experience with attaching light-level geolocators on small passerines and analysing such data is an additional desired qualification.

The application should include a letter of interest (max. 2 pages) describing the reasons for seeking this position, the applicants educational portfolio and research interests. It should also include a CV, copies of examination certificates, other relevant academic documents and contact information (phone, e-mail) of at least two personal references. Publications may also be attached to the application, including accepted scientific papers and printed Master’s thesis.

Admission requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programs if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Assessment criteria
Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies,

Eligibility
Students with basic eligibility for third-cycle studies are those who- have completed a second-cycle degree- have completed courses of at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits are from second-cycle courses, or- have acquired largely equivalent knowledge in some other way, in Sweden or abroad.

The employment of doctoral students is regulated in the Swedish Code of Statues 1998: 80. Only those who are or have been admitted to PhD-studies may be appointed to doctoral studentships. When an appointment to a doctoral studentship is made, the ability of the student to benefit from PhD-studies shall primarily be taken into account. In addition to devoting themselves to their studies, those appointed to doctoral studentships may be required to work with educational tasks, research and administration, in accordance with specific regulations in the ordinance.

Type of employment
Limit of tenure, four years according to HF 5 kap 7§.