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

Subject description

Biology is the broad subject about all living things. It encompasses everything from processes at the molecular and cellular level to global processes at ecosystem level. The subject is divided into a range of sub-disciplines and specialisations. The PhD programme at the Department of Biology includes many of these specialisations, from molecular biology to applied ecology, from viruses and individual cells to evolutionary biology and global biodiversity. Taking on research studies at the Department of Biology generally means focusing on a delimited part of the research area of biology and may include field studies, experiments, theoretical studies, or a combination of these.

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 goal of the PhD project is to provide the first thorough investigation of how biological compasses, that guide insects in their movements across the globe, are adapted to different visual environments, with a focus on neuronal adaptations. Fundamental differences between different types of environments include light levels, amount of direct sun light and type of terrain. The outcome of this project will allows us to develop optimized models of visual orientation mechanisms for different visual habitats. Such models can used to inspire effective guidance strategies for autonomous robots navigating through natural environments. 

The project will involve state-of-art tracking techniques (Differential GPS, high speed videography), video analysis, morphological and molecular studies of eyes and insect view reconstructions. In addition, there will be opportunities to learn histological, neuroanatomical and micro-CT techniques to measure, map and reconstruct the sensory and information processing structures in South African dung beetles. 

The project include behavioral studies in the field  in South Africa (3-8 weeks per year) and is suitable for candidates with a background and an interest in neurobiology, computational biology 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

• A MSC in molecular biology/neurobiology /ecology or a closely related area.
• Excellent oral and written proficiency in English.
• Drivers license.
• Demonstrated ability for proactive and independent work.
• Practical experience in video and/or image analysis.
• Practical experience of behavioural work in the field.

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

• Experience in data processing, statistical computing, modelling and programming
• Experience in 3D-reconstruction in Amira (or similar.)

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, drive 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 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 shall 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).