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

Work duties
The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties, up to 20%.

The aim of the Ph.D. project is to study the relation between different metabolic rates that make up the “metabolic phenotype”. These metabolic rates relate to the life history concepts of maintenance (basal metabolic rate), winter survival (cold-induced peak metabolic rate) and reproductive success (flight-induced metabolic rate). Positive relations between these metabolic rates would indicate differences in individual quality or acquisition rates whereas negative relations would indicate trade-offs – an individual cannot invest in maintenance, winter survival and reproductive success at the same time. The outcome of the project will allow us to make predictions about selection pressures shaping the metabolic phenotype in a changing world.

The project will involve state-of-the-art metabolic measurements in the lab using a respirometer. The use of a thermo-constant cabinet will make it possible to manipulate ambient temperature and the use of a hop-and-flutter wheel will make it possible to measure work metabolism. Part of the project will involve field work in a nest box breeding population of blue tits. The project will offer training in analyses of life history strategies and in evaluating physiological traits as currencies for determining trade-offs. The project is suitable for students with an interest in eco-physiology and behaviour.

Admission requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes 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.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Biology if he or she has passed an independent project (for example a degree project) of at least 30 credits in a relevant subject and have good oral and written proficiency in English.

Additional requirements 

• MSc in evolutionary biology, evolutionary ecology, animal ecology or related area.
• Practical experience in handling birds
• Practical experience in checking nest boxes for breeding
• Practical experience in bird ringing
• Excellent oral and written proficiency in English
• Demonstrated ability for proactive and independent work
• Valid drivers license (Swedish license category B)

 In addition to the mandatory requirements, documented experience in the following areas will be considered as strong merits:

• Completed course in research animal ethics
• Experience in being part of a field work team

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:

• Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
• An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
• Written and oral communication skills
• Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, for example professional experience.

Consideration will also be given to strong collaborative skills and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programe.

Terms of employment
Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1–7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply
Applications should be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the postgraduate education programme and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etcetera).