Postdoctoral fellow in Evolutionary and conservation genomics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject description
We are recruiting a post-doctoral researcher for a project integrating evolutionary genomic insights into biodiversity conservation. The project will use an interdisciplinary approach combining (paleo)genomics, population genetics, quantitative genetics and computer simulations. Large datasets of historical/modern genomes, chromosome-level assemblies, and timeseries fitness data for several endangered bird species are available. The main question we seek to answer is the role of genomic erosion during and after population bottlenecks on species viability and extinction risk. However, the candidate will have freedom to pursue other questions of their interest within evolutionary genomics at large.

The post-doctoral fellow will help inform study design, write up work for publication, and connect with stakeholders/public. There will be opportunities for supervision and mentorship. The project is led by Asoc. Prof. Hernán E. Morales who is affiliated to the University of Copenhagen and Lund University. The postdoctoral fellow will be hosted at Lund University by Prof. Bengt Hansson at the Molecular Ecology and Evolution unit, and the work includes collaboration with Prof. Jacob Höglund, Uppsala University. Visits to the Globe Institute at the University of Copenhagen (1.5 hours train ride) are encouraged. The position includes the opportunity for assisting to training in relevant workshops, international conferences/meetings, and visits to collaborators across Europe.

The desired starting date is around July/August (negotiable) and the expected term is two years. Informal inquiries before applying are welcome (hernan.morales@biol.lu.se). 

Work duties
The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Involvement in co-supervision of students is desirable.

Detailed description of the work duties:

• Population genomics analysis of whole-genomes.
• Quantitative genetics analyses of genomic and fitness data.
• Synthesizing the data for publication.
• Writing manuscript for publication.
• Disseminating work in scientific conference and to the public

Qualification requirements
Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position, completed no more than three years before the date of employment decision. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written English skills.
• Strong skills in bioinformatics
• A comprehensive understanding of evolutionary and population genetics theory.
• Documented ability to develop and complete high-quality research.
• Documented knowledge of molecular lab work is an advantage but not required.
• Expertise on (or willingness to learn) individual-based modelling.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications
This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers.

Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

Assessment criteria:

• Documented ability to develop and complete high-quality research.
• Strong skills in bioinformatics.

Additional assessment criteria:

• Documented understanding of evolutionary and population genetics theory

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

All qualified applicants will receive full consideration. Candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, contribute to diversity and competencies of our department are encouraged to apply.

Terms of employment
This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of two years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S and OFR/S, dated 1st February 2022.

Instructions on how to apply
Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• A cover letter stating reason for applying for position and giving a general description of past research and future research interests (no more than two pages).
• Résumé/CV, including a list of publications.
• Contact information of at least three references.
• Copy of the doctoral degree certificate.

The deadline to receive application is May 21st. Interviews are expected to be held during June.