Post-doctoral fellow in Palaeogenomics and conservation genomics

Post-doctoral fellow in Palaeogenomics and conservation genomics

Subject description

We are recruiting a post-doctoral researcher for 2 years (with possibility of extension for one more year) at the Department of Biology, Lund University, Sweden. The project aims to quantify the loss of genomic diversity through five millennia of elephant ivory trade. It includes a genomic analysis of elephant ivory confiscated in illegal imports to Europe and historical ivory from museums and archaeological collections as a source of key insights into elephant history, the present-day poaching crisis, as well as for improved elephant conservation in the future. This project is funded by a FORMAS grant “A genomic investigation of the diversity lost to the elephant ivory trade” awarded to Dr. Patrícia Pečnerová (patriciapecnerova.com). The project is led by Dr. Patrícia Pečnerová who is affiliated to the University of Copenhagen and Lund University. The postdoctoral fellow will be hosted by Prof. Bengt Hansson at the Molecular Ecology and Evolution Lab, Department of Biology, at Lund University. Visits to the Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen (1.5 hours train ride) are encouraged.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position shall include the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.

Detailed description of the work duties:

• Research within the subject area
• Teaching in the first, second and third cycles of studies
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students
• Actively seeking external research funding
• Collaboration with industry and wider society
• Administration related to the work duties listed above 

The project will use an interdisciplinary approach combining ancient DNA, population genetics, and conservation genetics. Collaboration with archaeologists, palaeontologists, historians, curators, conservationists, and forensics officials is an integral part of the project. The postdoc will help inform study design and perform research including recovering and analyzing ancient DNA using state-of-the-art genomic methods and writing up the results for publication in scientific journals. The position includes opportunities for participating in international conferences/meetings, sampling trips, and visits to collaborators across Europe.

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. Candidates who primarily come into question for the position have their PhD completed no more than three years before the date of employment decision. Career delays will be taken into consideration.

Additional requirements:

• Documented ability to develop and complete high-quality research.
• A comprehensive understanding of evolutionary and population genetics theory.
• A demonstrated track-record in handling high-throughput DNA sequencing data and bioinformatic analyses.
• Experience with wet lab analyses of ancient DNA or molecular lab work.
• A curious, collaborative, and cross-disciplinary mindset.
• Interest in biodiversity conservation.
• Very good oral and written English skills.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

This is a career-development position primarily focused on research. 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.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.

Additional assessment criteria:

• Comprehensive knowledge in one or more of the following disciplines: evolutionary biology, conservation, forensics, archaeology, history.

Skills in bioinformatic analyses and handling high-throughput DNA sequencing:

• Experience with wet lab analyses of ancient DNA and molecular lab work.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, 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 2 years (with the possibility of extension of one more year). 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.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Dr. Patrícia Pecnerová, patricia.pecnerova@bio.ku.dk, and Prof. Bengt Hansson, bengt.hansson@biol.lu.se.

 Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• A cover letter stating reasons for applying for this position, outlining why you are suitable for the position, and giving a general description of past research and future research interests (no more than 2 pages).
• Résumé/CV, including degrees and other completed courses, skills and work experience in laboratory and computational analyses, and a list of publications
• Contact information for 2-3 references.
• Copy of the doctoral degree diploma.